Macallan 12 Year Sherry Oak Cask (Old Bottling)

Taste... So many layers, with prominent spice and a rich, oily mouthfeel. You can detect the herbal and aged characteristics. Color... Deep amber shifting towards burnt orange. Nose... Incredibly aromatic and full of fruit. Intricate, preparing you for the palate... Overall... This derailed my whole evening of drinks. I had the bad luck to try this one first, and everything else paled in comparison. Fantastic taste from start to finish. Earthy, vegetal, and lush... you should definitely try this.....

I think this is alright, meaning it's acceptable but not something I'd seek out again. The phrase “plain vanilla” is frequently used for flavors, but it truly fits this bottling. It's smooth, unsurprising, and generally just average. It lacks a defining characteristic in its flavor profile; it tastes like scotch. This could be a safe introduction for someone who is hesitant about drinking scotch.

This 12-year-old Macallan was exclusively aged in specific Sherry oak casks from Jerez, Spain. No longer sold in the UK, this 12-year-old was added to the Macallan lineup shortly before the age statement range was discontinued in 2013. The aroma is crisp and fresh with significant sweetness. The well-balanced palate offers notes of marmalade, fresh baked goods, sultanas, and sweet citrus peel.

When I compared this whisky to its sibling, the double cask 12 year, this one seemed a bit dull, light, and subdued. The aroma was typical, with honey and citrus, and a faint, unidentifiable funk. The taste and finish were brief. For the $80 price tag, there are many other options that offer a superior experience.

I'm unsure why it's taken me so long to revisit this bottle. The aroma is classic Macallan sherry, which has always been a favorite of mine. Taste: Flavorful, not watery despite a fairly low proof, and the finish holds its own. Now I recall why this is a classic – sometimes you just need a reminder.

Deep mahogany, oak, sherry, syrup. This is an absolutely wonderful beverage. Rich and complex. Woody, like aged oak. Caramel and toffee. A puckering barrel tannin finish. Very sweet and full of brown sugar.