Old Pulteney 12 Year

Oiliness honeyed from the coastal aging and magnificent, rich spice from the bourbon casks along with a touch of saltiness. One of my favourite whiskys!

The nose is initially citrusy with raisins and a slight peatiness. Giving it time to breathe, I get a French bread yeastiness. Neat, the palate is one of anise, pepper, flowers and a long, chest-deep burn. With a bit of water the spiciness subsides a bit allowing a note of toasted cashew to emerge. The finish is a sweet lingering burn with a slight cigar taste. Dry glass - the holiday bowl of mixed nuts still in their shells.

Color: copper gold...moderate legs at 43% ABV...bulbous top clear bottle is said to mimic their stills...Bottle also has a compass star imprint on the bottom...a nice visual touch. Nose: nice lemony citrus, vanilla, fresh and spices on the nose...very pleasant! Palate: strong on first sip, then mellows ...fairly interesting...it does have a nice creamy feel. I get soft honey, some very slight oak char bitter, a nut or nutmeg spice, vanilla, and a faint smokey note. That's quite a lot for a 12 yr old expression that only cost me $39 ! Finish: Nice warming medium length finish, and yup I do get the light salty tang at the end... This bourbon cask matured Coastal Highlander has a lot going for it...3.9.a keeper in my lineup!