Deanston 12 Year

As much as I like this site with its varied reviews and a sense of being part of the whisky fabric, it’s not without a few issues; not least of which are some strangely low scores given by the experts which are totally at odds with the scores from the novices like me. Case in point is Deanston 12. Yes, I know we all have different palates and therefore different preferences, but a good whisky is a good whisky. The Distiller score of 79 is simply wrong. First, the basics: 46.3% ABV, natural color, non chill-filtered. Off to a good start I would say. The nose is quite sweet with fruits (apples/pears) and a hint of malt. The palate offers a thick mouthfeel with nice toffee notes and more maltiness. The finish is medium in length which fades away nicely with a slightly bitter citrus note that balances the sweet arrival. At $59 this l is a solid 88 in my book. Take note, Distiller.

Not offensive in anyway, but not exciting either. Just a little more sweetness and fruit and it would be a real winner

Scotch! Dang!

I appreciate that they bottled this at 46%, non-chill filtered, and no color added. It is a very nice unfinished scotch with what I would consider to be natural flavor. It is very good, but I prefer something with a hint of smoke. Nose: Vanilla, honey, ethanol, cereal, white wine Palate: Vanilla (gets creamier with water), cereal grain, honey, apple, dusty Finish: Medium, honey dust with ethanol on back end. Mouthfeel: This screams quality, it is quite viscous for the light flavor, almost creamy. Very nice!

A little smokey to me. Not a bad next step to Glenmorangie

This is a delicious highland whisky. To be fair, I have yet to know what makes a characteristic highland whisky, it this stuff is great. It’s got more fresh fruit scent in the nose (aberfeldy also has that), also, it’s more green comparing to some others. It’s delicious smelling, and just works up an appetite. On the taste, it’s also great, balanced and delicious flavors of sweet and a little bit tart, and even some bitterness. The sweet dessert and fruit taste comes in and then it’s super smooth. It’s one yummy whisky. Again, goes great with green grapes! It’s a keeper! So much better than the highland park 12.

Vanilla and lemon frosting sweet aroma. As it dries aromas of melons and strawberry pop out.