Tullibardine The Murray

This spirit is somewhat surprising. It has a less-than-ideal bready, mineral note, but also a floral sweetness that provides balance. It's light yet nicely balanced. There's a slight bitterness from the wood that I wish was softened by charring or, preferably, toasting. As it develops, more toffee emerges. It could benefit from more aging and less aggressive barrel influence, but as an inexpensive option, it's quite good. It contains honey and ample fruit beyond just pear. There's a sort of herbal, medicinal quality from the barrel. I detect mango along with notes of clover honey, vanilla, orange blossom mixed with rose blossom. If all these flavors were aged together longer in an interesting cask (bourbon, port, Sauternes, etc.), this could be a magnificent spirit. As it stands, it's acceptable, but not rich or well-integrated enough. I would certainly sip this, but I wouldn't purchase a bottle.

I don't understand why this is so lowly rated. A friend and another person are on the money. This is a quality dram. 20 was good. Sauternes was crap (prior to my Dramfest dram and then in slightly upgraded to average). This was very good. Perfect balance. I'm a sucker for first fill bourbon and this delivered. I had no idea what abv this was until the distributor told me. I was amazed. 4.25. Update I bought this for $75USD vs the $160 I thought it was. Much better VFM!

Fragrant aroma, with wine must, black pepper, vanilla, and cantaloupe appearing before the first sip. Medium body, with fresh grapes and citrus notes on the palate. The finish is long, spicy and quite smooth, even at 56.1% ABV. Overall a complex and delicious dram.

If you enjoy wine finishes, this bottle is perfect for you. It's a "must-have" spirit. There are notes of fresh grapes, wine must, vanilla, a distinct peppery quality, and oak. Everything integrates wonderfully, with a notably long finish.

Nose: Sweet fruit, grain, and a creamy vanilla aroma. Palate: Tart lemon, crisp melon, and a grain-forward sweetness with notes of caramel. Finish: Lingering sweetness; this spirit demands attention. It has notes of burnt sugar, butterscotch, and a subtle warming spice.

Notes of pear skin, cashew, and toffee mingle with chocolate for a complex profile. It's remarkably balanced, especially with the alcohol's warmth, which only appears on the finish. A skillfully made spirit.