Tullibardine 12 Year

A sweet nose greets you with gentle notes of orchard fruits and cereals, but then a sharp trailing edge leaves some ethanol and underripe strawberry in its wake. I get Golden Delicious apple, Anjou pear, oats, a hint of gin soaked Golden raisins, a dollop of honey, and some very mild baking spices. To the tongue, it’s equal parts spicy and sweet. There’s immediate heat and cinnamon spice, then fruity sweet notes muscle their way in with fresh apple dominating an undertone of lemony citrus and strawberry jam. The body is a bit on the light side, not surprising at a meager 40%ABV. The mouthfeel is a little thin but with a redeeming oiliness. In the glass, the legs start off a hot mess, but manage to get it together before they disappear completely. The finish is nice, semidry with a little rustic oak coming through. There’s cocoa dusted almonds providing some bitter astringency, and just a drop of lingering sweetness. No need to add water to this one, it’s better as is. It’s a worthy scotch with a flavor that nods at finer Irish whiskies. Nose: 8 Taste: 8 Body: 6 Finish: 7

Tullibardine is sweet and drinkable, good for sharing at a lively gathering. The nose suggests green apple, melted butter, and pekoe black tea. I taste plantain chips, shortbread, and gardenia flowers. It’s a bit green, with a waxy mouthfeel. The finish is cakey and malty, while the aftertaste leaves refined sugar. It lacks depth and complexity and feels overly processed; while not much to talk about, it would still be a nice companion for meeting a new person at a party.

On the nose, candy sweetness and light oak toast. Reminiscent of cherry Twizzlers. The plate brings vanilla cream, but specifically more like vanilla almond milk. There’s an almondy nuttiness that I’m digging. Also, rice crispy treats. The finish is barley and more light oak, with a pretty long finish. Killer scotch for the price.

Very mild smoke. Almost negligible. Tastes great to a traditional bourbon fan, tastes great neat or on ice. Gets lost in a Hot Toddy which was the reason I bought it. Turns out it's a great change of a sipper. Would definitely keep in my cabinet.

Coffee and malty on the nose. Highland flavor is consistent with the region. Enjoyable and easy going but light and disappearing finishes. Very bold, but maybe a very, VERY SLIGHT bit of Nikka Coffey malt.

I think this is underrated. It is rich with great mouth feel. And while it lacks any smoke it is full of flavor. For fans of a fruity single malt, this one is very satisfying!