Skip to content
Sip Curator
Cardhu 12 Year
Cardhu

Cardhu 12 Year

3.41 Mixed reviews

1,356 reviews1.4k ratings

87 critic score

Whiskey Scotch Speyside 12 Year 40% ABV

Tried it?

How was this pour?

Score this bottle

Rating a bottle takes an account, so your scores follow you and count towards the number everyone else reads.

About this bottle

While Cardhu might not be widely recognized by name, its presence is likely familiar due to its significant role in most Johnnie Walker blended whiskies. The single malt bottling was particularly popular in Europe, especially Spain. Its high demand led to a reformulation as a blended malt to meet market needs, a change that was met with dissatisfaction and subsequently reversed by Cardhu in 2005.

How it tastes

Measured across 14 flavor axes. Tap a note to find other bottles that lead with it.

Sweet 70
Rich 60
Fruity 60
Vanilla 60
Tart 50
Floral 50
Herbal 40

Reviews

Showing the most detailed of 50 parsed reviews.

Reggie Peoples 3.0

Cardhu 12-year-old Scotch whisky is a pleasant and accessible choice, particularly for those new to single malts. Its scent is mild and inviting, with notes of honey, vanilla, and a hint of fruit. While it might not possess the complexity of older versions, it is still charming with its sweetness. On the palate, Cardhu 12-year-old is smooth and easy to consume. The flavors of caramel, toffee, and gentle spices blend well, creating a nice taste. However, experienced whisky drinkers might find the taste a bit too mild and simple, lacking the depth and detail found in more aged single malts. The finish is of medium length and satisfying, leaving a warm and lasting sweetness. Although it doesn't have the complexity of some other 12-year-old single malts, its easy-drinking quality makes it a great option for relaxed moments. In summary, Cardhu 12-year-old is a dependable introductory single malt, suitable for those exploring Scotch whisky. Nevertheless, for those seeking a more intricate and strong flavor profile, it may not fully satisfy their refined tastes.

Brynn Alford 3.3

Because of its low alcohol content, I'd never paid this malt much attention, but I received a bottle from a charity whiskey drawing. The aroma has a waxy quality. It's subtly floral, with honey and citrus. I detect something possibly peat-like, vaguely reminding me of Clynelish. This quality carries to the palate, but it's very subtle. The palate is mainly honey, pear, citrus, and musty wood, with a drying finish. A hint of saltiness. A whisper of smoke. The mouthfeel is pleasant, especially for 40% ABV. It's better than I expected, though I'm not sure it's an exceptional value.

Peter Humphrey 3.3

Aroma: Honey, Bartlett pear, light lemon, vanilla, and some bready notes (similar to good white bread). Taste: Abundant honey, some citrus, and vanilla. Honestly, if I didn't know better, I'd think I was drinking Johnnie Walker Black Label. The resemblance is striking. Post-review note: Upon discovering that Cardhu is a significant supplier for Johnnie Walker, my tasting comparison makes sense... I nailed it. Overall Assessment: Aroma: 3/5, Taste: 3.5/5, Overall: 3.25/5 Repurchase Consideration: No (It's good, but overpriced for what it is). Occasion: Special Event

Blanca Nieto 3.0

Nose: Lemon tea or lemon on the vine with a hint of honey. Palate: Lemon with a touch of sugar (comparable to sugar and lemon, but lighter), burnt cereal, or strong black tea. Finish: Extremely short, light fruity sweetness. I did not feel this whiskey offered good value; it is very light, and the flavors (in my opinion) do not harmonize well. Toffee notes would have provided a better contrast to the lemon, but if you enjoy lemon iced tea, this whiskey might be for you. A splash of water is essential.

Cherie Flores 2.3

Nose: Floral and somewhat grainy. Palate: Light texture, floral with a hint of apple? Finish: Strong initially, then mellows, with a slight tannic note at the end. A good whisky for newcomers, simple to understand and, most importantly, easy to drink! Smell: Floral and somewhat grainy. Taste: Light on the palate, floral with a hint of apple? Length: Strong at first, then it fades, a little tannin taste at the end. A good whisky for beginners, easy to figure out and above all easy to drink!

Ronnie Steen 4.3

Aroma: decent sweetness, richness. Hints of smoke, apple, pears. Palate: Smooth, gentle sweetness, soft peat. A bit of smoke and subtle sweetness, akin to a fancy tequila Finish: Long, light with a touch of peat.

44 more reviews were collected for this bottle. The longest ones are shown first.

Tastes like this

Closest flavor profiles across the whole catalog.

All Scotch
Hibiki 12 Year
Hibiki

Hibiki 12 Year

Japanese Whisky Japan
4.0 /5 1,072 $50–$100