A sweet aroma greets you with delicate notes of orchard fruits and cereals, followed by a sharp aftertaste leaving some ethanol and underripe strawberry. I perceive Golden Delicious apple, Anjou pear, oats, a hint of gin-soaked golden raisins, a dollop of honey, and some very mild baking spices. On the palate, it's equally spicy and sweet. There's immediate heat and cinnamon spice, then fruity sweet notes assert themselves, with fresh apple dominating an undertone of lemony citrus and strawberry jam. The body is somewhat on the lighter side, which is not surprising at a mere 40% ABV. The mouthfeel is a little thin but has a redeeming oiliness. In the glass, the legs initially appear chaotic but eventually stabilize before disappearing. The finish is pleasant, semi-dry with a touch of rustic oak emerging. Cocoa-dusted almonds provide some bitter astringency, along with just a drop of lingering sweetness. There's no need to add water to this one; it's better as is. It's a worthy scotch with a flavor that echoes finer Irish whiskies. Aroma: 8 Taste: 8 Body: 6 Finish: 7
Tullibardine 12 Year
Whiskey Scotch Highlands 12 Year 40% ABV
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About this bottle
This single malt, exclusively offered in the US market, has been matured for at least 12 years solely in first-fill ex-bourbon barrels. It is bottled at 40% ABV and became available in September 2021.
How it tastes
Measured across 14 flavor axes. Tap a note to find other bottles that lead with it.
Reviews
Showing the most detailed of 9 parsed reviews.
This spirit is sweet and easy to drink, suitable for sharing at a lively gathering. The aroma suggests green apple, melted butter, and pekoe black tea. I detect flavors of plantain chips, shortbread, and gardenia. It has a slightly green character and a waxy mouthfeel. The finish is cake-like and malty, with a refined sugar aftertaste. It lacks depth and complexity and feels somewhat artificial. While not particularly noteworthy, it would be a pleasant companion for meeting someone new at a party.
On the scent, sweet candy notes and light wood charring. Evokes cherry Twizzlers. The palate offers vanilla cream, more specifically like vanilla almond milk. There's an almond nuttiness that is appealing. Also, rice crispy treats. The finish has barley and more light wood, with a rather long finish. Excellent scotch for the cost.
Very subtle smoke, almost unnoticeable. It tastes great to a traditional bourbon enthusiast, whether neat or on ice. It gets lost in a Hot Toddy, which was the original purpose for purchasing it. It turns out to be an excellent alternative sipper. I would certainly keep it on hand.
Coffee and malt on the scent. Highland flavor aligns with the area. Enjoyable and easygoing, but finishes light and fleeting. Quite bold, but perhaps a tiny touch of Nikka Coffey malt.
I believe this is overlooked. It possesses richness and an excellent mouthfeel. Although it lacks any smokiness, it is packed with flavor. For those who enjoy a fruity single malt, this is very satisfying!
3 more reviews were collected for this bottle. The longest ones are shown first.
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