Whisky Review/Tasting: Aberlour 12 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Nestled in the heart of Speyside, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured for 12 years, details on specific cask types used for maturation are not provided, but sherry cask influence is noted.
Age Statement: 12 years.
Color: Golden amber with hints of rich ruby red.
Clarity: Non-chill filtered, may turn cloudy if diluted excessively or chilled.
Bottle Design: Noted for its bulgy shape and sealed with wax, making it somewhat difficult to open without a small latch.

Balance of Flavors: Rich and fruity, with a balance between sweet, fruity, and spicy elements. The sherry cask influence is prominent, adding depth to the flavor profile.
Unique Characteristics: The non-chill filtration process preserves the full flavor and adds a richer, creamier mouthfeel. Notable for its absence of bitterness, with European oak influence being minimal.
Comparison: More intense in flavor and aroma than the Aberlour 10 year old, particularly in terms of sherry cask influence and ABV.

Distillery History: James Fleming founded the Aberlour Distillery in 1879, inspired by the exceptionally pure spring water from St. Drostan's Well in Speyside.
Production Insights: The decision to bottle this whisky at 48% ABV and without chill filtration is highlighted as a means to preserve its natural flavors and mouthfeel.

Speyside Heritage: Aberlour's location in Speyside, a region renowned for its whisky production, contributes to its identity. The use of local spring water and the natural environment plays a crucial role in defining the character of Aberlour whiskies.

"Omitting modern chill filtration preserves intact the full flavor of the malt." - Emphasizes the importance of non-chill filtration in maintaining the whisky's integrity.
"A wonderful dram. Not too expensive." - Praises the whisky's quality relative to its price, indicating good value.

Aberlour 12 years is a non-chill filtered single malt Scotch whisky from Speyside, matured for 12 years.
It features a rich and fruity flavor profile with a notable sherry cask influence, balanced with sweet, fruity, and spicy notes.
The whisky's story is tied to its Speyside heritage and the distillery's founding based on the purity of local spring water.
Expert opinions highlight the significance of non-chill filtration and the whisky's value for money.
The bottle's design, with its bulgy shape and wax seal, is noted for its distinctiveness.

For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring the effects of non-chill filtration on flavor will find this whisky particularly intriguing.
For Sherry Cask Fans: Individuals who appreciate the rich, fruity notes imparted by sherry casks will enjoy the Aberlour 12 years.
For Beginners: The absence of bitterness and the balanced, rich flavor profile make it accessible to those new to whisky tasting.
For Value Seekers: Given its quality relative to price, this whisky is recommended for those looking for a high-quality dram without breaking the bank.