Tullibardine 500 Sherry Cask Finish

Tullibardine 500 Sherry Cask Finish | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

  • Origin: Tullibardine Distillery, located in the Highlands of Scotland.
  • Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
  • Distillation & Maturation: Finished in 500-liter Sherry casks, specifically Sherry butts, for a period of 12 months. The whisky is uncolored.
  • Age Statement: No age statement provided.
  • Color & Clarity: Described as having a wonderful Sherry color, indicating a rich, deep hue.
  • Bottle Design: Not specifically described, but the focus is on the content and the cask finish.

Whisky Flavor Profile

  • Balance of Flavors: The whisky is noted for its balance, with no overpowering elements from start to finish.
  • Unique Characteristics: The finishing in Sherry casks imparts a significant Sherry note, alongside flavors of apple, toffee, chocolate, and honey. The apple flavor is likened to very red apples with a flowery consistency.
  • Comparison: Not directly compared to other whiskies, but its flavor profile is distinct due to the Sherry cask finish.

Whisky Storytelling

  • Distillery History: Tullibardine has a rich history, with a notable visit from King James IV in 1488. The site transitioned from a brewery to a distillery post-World War II in 1947.
  • Recent Developments: The distillery underwent renovations and added a bottling line around 2014. It was sold in 2014 but had reopened earlier in 2003 after a period of closure.

Cultural or Geographical Significance

  • Location: The distillery's proximity to a major highway (A97) makes it a prominent landmark in the Highlands. It's housed in a building that was once a supermarket.
  • Historical Anecdote: King James IV's purchase of beer in 1488 at the site, documented through historical records, ties the distillery to Scottish royalty and history.

Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes

  • "Wonderful aftertaste, so the mixture, the balance really good." - Praise for the whisky's balanced flavor profile.
  • "It's round, it's flavorsome, it's very sweet, it's nice, it's a pleasant whisky." - Comments on the whisky's enjoyable taste.
  • "That's a dangerous whisky." - Referring to how easily and enjoyably one can consume it.

Summary

  • Tullibardine 500 Sherry Cask Finish is a no-age-statement single malt Scotch whisky, finished in 500-liter Sherry casks.
  • It features a balanced flavor profile with notes of apple, toffee, chocolate, and honey, enhanced by the Sherry cask finish.
  • The distillery has a rich history, including a notable visit from King James IV in 1488.
  • The whisky is praised for its balance, pleasant taste, and the danger of it being too enjoyable to sip.

Recommendations for Different User Profiles

  • For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring the effects of Sherry cask finishing on whisky will find this bottle intriguing.
  • For History Buffs: Individuals fascinated by the historical aspects of whisky production, especially in Scotland, will appreciate the rich backstory of Tullibardine.
  • For Casual Drinkers: Its pleasant and balanced flavor profile makes it accessible and enjoyable, even for those not typically inclined towards whisky.