Tullibardine 12 Years Old 2010 Cask #DL 15618 (Old Particular)

Bottled by Douglas Laing, this Tullibardine matured to 12 year old from 2010, drawn from cask DL 15618 and bottled at 48.4%. The outturn was 303 bottles. Tullibardine, established in 1949 at the foot of the Ochil Hills, is known for its wine cask finishes. Its malt also goes into the Highland Queen blend, another Picard brand.

Distilled in copper stills on Ochil Hills spring water, giving the light, fruity spirit at its heart. Maturation in a sherry cask laid dried fruit over the honeyed malt. At this age the spirit is fresh and honeyed, the malt and soft fruit bright. Under French wine ownership the distillery has leaned into cask finishes. The malt also feeds the Highland Queen blend, another brand in the Picard stable. Part of the old estate was turned into a retail outlet during the lean years. The distillery sits just off the A9 near Gleneagles, one of Scotland's more accessible.

Bottled at a cask strength 48.4%, it is rich. The Oloroso adds figgy fruit and a warm nuttiness, and the refill oak lending honey and vanilla runs under a mellow, honeyed character. A dried fruit and a soft oak give it depth. The finish is rounded, honeyed and gentle. This is a gentle, honeyed Highland single malt.