
Aultmore Speyside Single Malt 12Y
A crisp and clean Speyside single malt, the Aultmore 12 Year Old offers a refined and herbaceous character, often referred to as a "Foggie Moss" whisky due to its local water source. Expect delicate fruit, subtle sweetness, and a smooth finish.
The Aultmore 12 Year Old is a beautifully balanced Speyside single malt, cherished by connoisseurs for its elegant and nuanced profile. Distilled at the Aultmore distillery, nestled in the heart of Speyside and often shrouded in a distinctive local mist, this whisky embodies the purity of its surroundings. Its unique character is attributed to the water source, originating from the "Foggie Moss," a natural filter that imparts a particularly clean and crisp quality. Aged for a minimum of 12 years, primarily in ex-bourbon casks, the Aultmore 12 develops a delicate complexity. On the nose, it presents a bouquet of fresh orchard fruits, vanilla, and a hint of grassy herbaceousness. The palate is equally inviting, with notes of sweet apples, pears, honey, and a gentle spice, all underpinned by a remarkable smoothness. The finish is long, dry, and satisfying, leaving a refreshing, clean impression. This 12-year-old expression is a perfect introduction to the Aultmore range, showcasing the distillery's commitment to crafting whiskies of exceptional finesse and clarity. It's a true hidden gem of Speyside, rewarding those who seek a sophisticated and understated dram.
Tasting Notes
Nose: Fresh green apples, ripe pears, vanilla pod, a touch of lemon zest, subtle herbaceous notes (heather, cut grass).
Palate: Sweet and creamy, with honeyed malt, baked apples, soft pear drops, delicate floral hints, and a hint of white pepper spice. Extremely smooth and well-rounded.
Recognition
World Whiskies Awards: Often receives Silver or Gold medals in categories such as "Speyside Single Malts up to 12yo" or "Single Malt Scotch - to 12 Yrs." (e.g., Silver in 2023, Gold in 2016).
International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC): Frequently awarded Silver or Gold medals (e.g., Spirit Gold in 2023, Silver in 2024).
Food Pairings
Light Cheeses: Fresh goat cheese, mild cheddar, or a creamy Brie.
Seafood: Pan-seared scallops, smoked salmon, or delicate white fish.
Desserts: Apple crumble, pear tart, shortbread, or vanilla panna cotta.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy neat in a traditional whisky nosing glass to appreciate its full aroma and flavour profile.
A few drops of pure, still water can help to open up the whisky, revealing further layers of complexity.
Interesting Facts
Aultmore distillery was founded in 1897 by Alexander Edward.
The name "Aultmore" is derived from the Gaelic "An t-Allt Mòr," meaning "Big Burn," referring to the nearby burn (stream) that feeds the distillery.
For many years, Aultmore was primarily used in blends, particularly Dewar's, making its single malt releases highly sought after by those "in the know."
The distillery has a reputation for producing whiskies often described as "top dressing" whiskies, meaning they add a delicate and refined quality to blends.