Tastes

Apple, lemon, light fruit characteristics with some tart and sweetness. A great Irish whiskey for the price and extremely easy drinking. For those searching for character, you may not get much. However, Jameson makes for a fine utility whiskey. Smooth but uneventful. Might work well as a blank canvas in cocktails.

This is a balanced offering leaning towards a more Sherry characteristic by Aberlour. The double cask effect truly shines in the 16, and it feels like an achievement in the distilleries intentions more so than the 12 year old offering. By that I mean, the 12 felt like an incomplete work of art. At 16, it feels like the artwork is truly complete and cohesive. Of course, this comes with a higher price but it’s worth it for those that are looking for a scotch with Sherry characteristics. Deep dark and rich fruits, spiciness, some woody characteristics but beautifully balanced so that no particular note overpowers the senses. Sweet but just in the right amount. Very drinkable, smooth, and complete in a sense. Great stuff.

Close to a perfect scotch for me. This is a seaside barbeque in your mouth with all the flavours associated with. Think rich and dark fruits, sea salt, smoke, meaty flavours, and the right amount of peatiness. It is wonderfully complex but the progression of the flavours from across your first sip to the lingering bonfire after it runs down your throat is distinct. Big flavours but subtly balanced with each other. Incredible.

Rich fruits, spices, dry fruits, flavourful, medium finish

Wood, vanilla, apricot, honey, balanced. The Balvenie 12 is perhaps the best 12 there is for a non-peaty and non-smoky offering. Very easy drinking and a great malt for the price.