Royal Brackla 12 Years Old 2011 Cask #158 (Orcines)

Orcines bottled this Royal Brackla single malt, a 12 year old from 2011, drawn from cask 158 and bottled at 46%. A release of 333 bottles. Royal Brackla was opened in 1812 on the Earl of Cawdor's estate near Nairn; it became the first Scotch granted a royal warrant, by William IV in 1833. Captain Fraser, late of the army in India, shipped his spirit south to beat the local smugglers.

The spirit was made in copper pot stills after a long fermentation, for a fruity, honeyed make of real finesse. It was matured in refill ex-Bourbon oak, lending honey and vanilla. Around twelve to sixteen years the malt gains a sherried depth over the fruit. Sherry wood is central to the house style, lending dried fruit and a nutty depth. The spirit was long destined for blends before its single malt revival. Royal Brackla was the first Scotch whisky ever to be granted a royal warrant.

At an easy 46% it is gentle. Vanilla and a light cream from the barrel runs under a refined, fruity sweetness. A dried fruit and a gentle oak spice give it real depth. Dried fruit and oak spice see out a long finish. This is a fragrant Highland single malt of real finesse.