Aberlour 12 Year Sherry Cask Matured

NOSE A buttery scent like cinnamon toast, with a concentrated raisin note in the background, touches of astringent wood, glacé cherry, and char from the barrel. PALATE A big, sweet butter flavor hits first, followed by maple syrup, brown sugar, plump raisins, nutmeg, milk chocolate, and more of the char detected on the nose. FINISH A medium-length finish with chocolate, raisins, and additional char. COMMENT This is a sweet dram with good amounts of sherry spice and richness, but it's not excessively heavy. A hint of welcome bitter char prevents the dram from becoming too sweet, providing excellent equilibrium.

No whisky is more perfectly '8 out of 10' than Aberlour. It's decent, not outstanding. A very drinkable and affordable choice, with a few interesting nuances. Bottled at 40% ABV, with an amber color. On the nose: Strawberries, Sherry, a subtle yet pleasant aroma, Cola, Almonds. On the palate: Oak, very pleasant, Spicy and peppery, very easy to enjoy, a little Salty and Apricots. The finish is slightly ashy and medium in length. Overall, this is an 85 out of 100. I would recommend it given the price and how easily it drinks.

Nose: A full orchard and very distinct sherry, a bit of honey too. Palate: Oak-forward, quite sweet, fruity. Very smooth to drink and the sherry is distinct again. Finish: A bit of spice, dried fruit sensation and then a quick finish. Overall, even though I usually prefer the intense and strong character of Islay, this Highland Aberlour is quite satisfying with its intense and sharp finish. 86/100

The words sweet, pleasant, and inoffensive come to mind with this one. It has a nice sweetness, somewhat akin to a mellow, cheaper bourbon in certain aspects. However, it also has a sherry component. It's good but lacks flavor complexity and is a bit dull. I didn't even finish it as it wasn't worth lingering over while I moved on to something else. 3.25

Lovely hue! Aromas of cherry-vanilla and subtle spice greet you. The taste is full and malty, featuring dark cherries, chocolate, and sugared almonds. It's not overly sweet, and the sherry cask influence is prominent, delivering just the right flavor intensity. A fantastic initial cask offering, particularly considering its cost.

Color: mahogany Flavor: Traditional Speyside with clear sherry influences, showing notes of nutmeg, currant fruitcake, oak, and vanilla Aroma: Rich with vanilla and cinnamon crumb cake, carrying a light spice Finish: Medium length and fruit-forward