Tullibardine 12 Years Old (Original Collection)

A Tullibardine single malt, drawn and bottled by Cadenhead's, a 12 year old release and bottled at 46%. Tullibardine was built in 1949 at the foot of the Ochil Hills; its honeyed malt has a quiet following. Water comes from the Ochil Hills springs, the same source as the Highland Spring bottled water.

Distilled in copper stills on Ochil Hills spring water, giving the light, fruity spirit at its heart. Ex-Sherry wood added a dried fruit richness to the soft make. At this age the spirit is fresh and honeyed, the malt and soft fruit bright. Bourbon wood frames the make with vanilla, the wine casks adding fruit. Delme-Evans, a noted gravity flow designer, also drew up the Jura and GlenAllachie distilleries. 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.

Bottled at 46%, it is rounded. The Pedro Ximenez lends raisin, date and treacle, and the refill oak lending honey and vanilla runs under a mellow, honeyed character. A dried fruit and a soft oak give it depth. Toffee, honey and a soft oak see out the finish. This is a gentle, honeyed Highland single malt.