Royal Brackla 12 Years Old 2012 Cask #494/2012 (Cask Masters)

From Brave New Spirits comes this Royal Brackla matured to 12 year old from 2012, drawn from cask 494/2012 and bottled at 49.8%. Just 340 bottles were filled. Set on the Earl of Cawdor's estate near Nairn, Royal Brackla has distilled since 1812. The house style leans on sherry wood, fruity and elegant.

The spirit was made in copper pot stills after a long fermentation, for a fruity, honeyed make of real finesse. Ex-Bourbon casks held the spirit, soft oak that lets the fruit lead. Past a decade the fruit deepens into honey, dried fruit and a warm spice. Sherry wood is central to the house style, lending dried fruit and a nutty depth. The malt is prized by blenders for its fragrant, fruity lift. Sherry and wine casks suit the elegant spirit, adding fruit and depth. The distillery was rebuilt and expanded across its long working life. A fruity, lightly spiced make sits at the heart of every bottling.

Bottled at a cask strength 49.8%, it is rich. Vanilla and a light cream from the barrel runs under citrus and a floral lift. It is refined and deep, the fruit and oak well matched. A warming, fruity finish lingers. This is an elegant Highland malt of real depth.