I enjoyed the 12 as a solid all around scotch that covered the bases, so I made the assumption the 18 must be better right?
Price: $180 for 750ml
Distilled/Owned by: Highland Park / Edrington Group
Region: Islands
43% ABV
Aged For: 18 Years
Mashbill: 100% malted barley
Cask Type: Ex-bourbon and ex-sherry
Chill Filtered: Yes
Color Added: No
Drank: Neat, in a glencairn
Color: Tarnished Gold
Nose: Smokey and fruity at the same time. Light mossy peat, with figs and ginger. Citrus and barley.
Taste: The peat disappears, now it just tastes of smokey cherry, blackberry, very malty and oak brings things together. Thinner and more watery than I’d like.
Finish: Tart fruits, cinnamon, and white pepper smoke. Medium length and average warmth.
Thoughts: There is less peat and more cask influence than the 12 year, but I don’t find it that much better than the 12 in my opinion, and certainly not for the price.
Score: 86 out of 100