Rosebank 12 Years Old 1989 (Silver Seal)

This Rosebank was from the independent bottler Silver Seal matured to 12 year old, from 1989 and bottled at 50%. 740 bottles in all. The Lowland Rosebank, established in 1840 in Camelon near Falkirk, in the Lowlands, was closed in 1993. Triple distillation and worm tub condensers, a pairing unique to Rosebank, gave the malt its elegant yet weighty style.

Triple distilled through three pot stills and condensed in wooden worm tubs, the make took the Rosebank style. Ex-Bourbon casks held the spirit, soft oak that lets the florals lead. At a youthful age the florals are lively and the fruit clean. A long, gentle maturation suits the refined, ester led Rosebank character. Rosebank stood on the Forth and Clyde Canal, which once carried its casks to market. The pairing of triple distillation and worm tubs was unique to Rosebank among Scotch distilleries. Blenders prized the malt for its elegant, floral character and unusual weight.

Bottled at a cask strength 50%, it is rich. The refill oak lending honey and vanilla runs under gooseberry and fresh grass. A beeswax and a tropical fruit give it real depth. Marzipan and citrus see out a long finish. This is one of the great ghost whiskies of the Lowlands.