Slainte-Mhath
Old Pulteney 12 Year
Single Malt — Highlands, Scotland
Reviewed
July 3, 2026 (edited July 8, 2026)
Known for its distinctly coastal and briny flavor profile, Old Pulteney is a demanding and yet rewarding single malt. Notes of orange peel, green apples and floral honey emerge from my glass, giving way to gentle spices, clay and hints of sea salt. It has a maritime vibe. The light and citric arrival unfolds with salted caramel, grapefruit zest and bitter lemon before turning tannic and mildly dry - these refill casks were a bit tired. Spearmint, lime juice and drying oak fade in the short to medium finish. A competent dram, but it deserves a better presentation.
RATING: 3.2/5.0 stars ≙ 81 pts → AVERAGE [+]
35.0
EUR
per
Bottle
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@jdriip I didn't know what - I thought the US version was always 43% ABV. But you're right, it tastes thin and watery.
@Slainte-Mhath with the rebadge in 2018 they also dropped from 43 to 40 ABV. Maybe that plays a part also.
Additional comment: I am always reluctant to re-review these basic single malts from 10 years ago. My palate has evolved, and quality has often deteriorated, so the result is not a surprise.
Last reviewed in 01/2017 (how time flies): As coastal malt from the Northern Highlands, Old Pulteney 12 is unlike many other whiskies: it's not made to be 'pleasant'. What you get is a demanding flavor profile, strength of character and a real personality. On the nose, there is a complex bouquet of bitter honey, tropical fruits, fresh ginger and hints of sea salt. The taste alternates between caramel sweetness, orange zest and savory notes before the oak kicks in and leads to a moderate, herbal crisp and rather dry finish. A rewarding single malt that requires time, patience and some experience! RATING: 3.7/5.0 stars ≙ 85 pts → ABOVE AVERAGE [+]