Origin: Spesyside (Scotland)
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Strength: 40%ABV
Ageing casks: Ex-Bourbon and ex-Sherry
Chillfiltered: Yes
Added coloring: Yes
Owner: Pernod Ricard (Chivas Brothers)
Average price: € 44.00
Official website: www.aberlour.com
Vote: 75/100
After dealing with two limited editions, this time we look at the classic 12-year-old from Aberlour, the entry point into the distillery’s range and a very typical expression of Speyside whiskies.
Here there are few frills: 12 years in American oak casks and final maturation in ex-Sherry casks, chillfiltered, coloured, 40% alcohol. Until a few years ago there was also an unchillfiltered, uncoloured version, bottled at 48%, but unfortunately it was withdrawn from the market.
Tasting notes
To the eye it’s the classic added caramel colour, so no point in talking about it.
The nose expresses what can truly be described as the classic Speyside flavour profile: malt, orange peel, banana, a little cinnamon, a little oak. On the palate, there is a small influence of the sherry: a little chocolate, a little pepper. The palate confirms the same impressions in an easy and comfortable drink: lots of vanilla, a little orange cream, banana again, a touch of spice, dried fruit, milk chocolate. Nothing particularly long or complex.
In short, it’s a typically ‘enough’ whisky: it fully satisfies all the requirements, without disturbance, but also without noteworthy flashes. The important thing is not to have high expectations (as happened to me with the Casg Annamh). It’s a trusty everyday dram, as it’s easily found for €35, but you can’t ask for more excitement.