In 2014, the Tomatin 12 Year Old was given an update and bottled at 43% ABV rather 40%, as it was previously. This core single malt from the ace distillery in the Highlands is finished for six-to-nine months in Oloroso Sherry casks before being bottled.
Buttery at first, but notes of cooked apple, raisin and almond soon emerge. There are resinous and floral hints as well as some chocolate.
Oak-y vanilla and fresh mint, dotted with stem ginger, a touch of guava and dried orange peel.
Currant buns, a hint of raspberry jam, barley.
Wow. Great value in the sherry & vanilla & heather taste range....not much smoke or spice, but you won't find a better 12 yr old single malt in the sweeter flavour profiles. Decent finish, good oiliness and mouthfeel. At 43% it can handle a few drops of water or a whisky stone (not that I ever use one)
Decent single malt with some good maltiness, but the 18 is much better for not that much more!
Not bad, citrus and floral on the nose..... nutty first wave of flavor transitioning to leather and cinnamon, and finishing with a slightly astringent qualities...... for a 12 year it is of a high quality, but I am biased towards highlands. Interested in the 15 and 18 next...
I quite like it. Lots of fruit, for sure. Citrus on the nose. Others have said candied apple, and I get that, too. It's much more interesting than most things in this price range. For about $35, I'm happy with it.
Pretty sharp finish. Not for the faint of heart.
