Old Pulteney 17 Year

Nose: A light sweet sherry hint at first then the fruity notes become apparent – light citrus, orchard fruits, melon and berries. There are minty notes behind the fruit supported by a background of malty cereal with a touch of leather, tobacco and burlap funk (just enough to add depth). As it rests in the glass the nose deepens and becomes richer, with sherry becoming more apparent. [The dry glass is sherry, honey and light smoke and surprisingly like the dry-glass aroma of Highland Park 18]. Palate: The arrival is soft and sweetly spicy with fruity notes a pleasant texture. There is a noticeable oak presence that rises in the development together with a rich, complex array of warmer spices - ginger, allspice, clove and cinnamon. There is a delicious vanilla-honey-sherry combination that flows throughout the palate and into the finish, and an earthy but fresh leathery quality. Finish: Short and dry. The elegant spicy sweetness of the palate gradually merges into a mild salty aftertaste, which in turn finally fades out as sweetness. A great whisky that for some is the standout of the Old Pulteney standard lineup but for others is overshadowed by the 21 year-old. There is a strong similarity between this and its younger sister the 12 year-old expression, but this is more integrated and elegant with a well-defined sherry presence and some very agreeable oak influence that is lacking in the 12. Very much the 12 year old all grown up. The nose is good but a little tight at first. It needs some time in the glass to unfurl and a couple of drops of water assists this process. The palate is, however, where things really blossom. Give this one some time to rest in the glass – at least 15 minutes – and I’d recommend just a few drops of water. “Excellent” : 88/100 (4.5 stars)