Aberfeldy 12 Year

This single malt is a major component of Dewar's blends, so if you've had and enjoyed Dewar's, this one will be right up your alley. It is not overly complex but it's certainly pleasant. The dominant note on the nose is apple, malt, and a bit of caramel. There's not much spice or smoke in its scent. The palate is consistent with the nose, quite sweet, and the texture is light and a little watery, not surprising given the low ABV. The finish is brief and has that sweet caramel flavor as well, though now hints of smoke and grassy bitterness appear at the end. The smoke is a surprising revelation at the end, and subtle -- probably just from the ex-bourbon barrel char. I've seen some reviews online claim this one has ex-sherry casks mixed in, but I don't see it at all, and the packaging itself only references ex-bourbon barrels. I find this bottle under $40 in Miami, so it's a fair, similarly priced substitute for the basic Glenmorangie 10, Glenlivet 12, Glenfiddich 12 trio, but not clearly superior to any of those.