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

 

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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