The GlenAllachie 12 yo

46°

Distillery : The GlenAllachie - Speyside

Pedro Ximénez, Oloroso and Virgin Oak Casks

Original Bottling 

Core Range

Single Malt

Launched in 2018

Unchillfiltered, Uncoloured

Totally Unpeated

Billy Walker bought the distillery in 2017 from Pernod Ricard, set up a consortium with the help of a few friends, and the following year this 12-year-old was launched. It was an immediate success. Today, people are surprised to learn that the distillery and this expression are so new, it feels like they are as renowned as a Glenfarclas.

Let's Taste It : 

Liquorice, dried banana, fig, which go well with raspberry and blackberry. In the background, it's a little earthy, black and damp, rich. Cherry, gooseberry and a hint of iodine. Old wood, a little soft. Varnish. A whiff of smoke. Blueberries, hazelnuts. Jam. Very fruity on the palate, almost acidic, all the red fruits you can imagine. Noble wood, cherry or chestnut. Minty freshness. Damsons. Some spices, but very light, paprika, saffron. It's velvety, almost hushed. Blackcurrant. The finish is a bit short, but good, first coaly, woody, then vinous, bittersweet. Tinder. More hazelnuts and blackcurrants. Strawberry gum.

In Short, 

A beautiful expression. It's not just another sherry-dominated bottling. It really has an identity. It's very velvety, rather soft and deep. The nose is balanced and complex, and the palate is a real success. On the other hand, I have a bit of a problem with the influence of the virgin casks. It gives a slightly bitter taste, especially on the finish. Overall, it's about the same level as a GlenDronach 12 year old, with a bit more punch and a better palate.

Score : 87

                                          To Be Listened While Sipping :

  

                                          US3 - Cantaloop