Whisky Review Round Up: Aberfeldy 12, 16 Year Old

Watermelon jolly rancher, raspberries and a light, refreshing bit of cucumber. Very pleasant medium length finish, low viscosity, firm but not abrasive oak tannin. The watermelon note in particular sticks around. Final Thoughts: A very pleasant, easy drinking dram. It has an a distinctly light and “summer-y” character, in a good way. Not necessarily what I would want on a cold night in November, but something more suited to a backyard barbecue. At around $40, I’d call it a value whisky that would be right at home in a gussied up classic cocktail or whisky highball. Score: 3.5/5 Tasting Notes: Aberfeldy 16 Year Old Vital Stats: 80 proof (40% abv); 100% malted barley; matured in Olrosso sherry casks; 16 years old; $95. Appearance: Oddly enough, the appearance of both the 12 year and 16 year is identical. Radiant golden straw. Nose: Bing cherries, slight oxidation, ripe melon, buttery, a slightly odd rye toast note. Palate: Marzipan, a touch of coconut, dried cherries and cherry pit spice, medium viscosity, some bakers chocolate, firm tannins, light ethanol burn, medium length finish with toasted almond dominating. Final Thoughts: A more thoughtful, weighty dram than the 12 year. The additional sherry casking comes through, but isn’t overbearing and works wonderfully with the fruity spirit, adding a richness and level of depth not present in the 12 year. While the bottlings seem to have a very different purpose in life, they are at once unique and complimentary. The 16 year is a wonderful addition to the Aberfeldy line up and surely worth seeking out. Score: 4/5