Black Bull Deluxe 12 Year Old

I've always wanted to try this blend - reading about the flavour profile, it sounds like something I'd like. And the packaging is very cool! Indeed - I was not disappointed. This Scotch blend, produced by Duncan Taylor, is 50% malt and 50% grain, and is non-coloured, non-chill-filtered.

It clings to the glass, a dark coppery colour with golden highlights.

The nose is caramel, light Quebec maple syrup, spearmint, fresh cut grass, a hint of peat in the background, but all very robust and enveloping like an old leather armchair. There is also sherry and oak, and malt vinegar with a hint of lemon. A very rich and satisfying nose.

Off the top in the mouth, you get sweet sherry laced with caramelized brown sugar, wrapped in dark chocolate. A rough grain in the background balances out the sweet sherry and chocolate. I get rum-soaked dates. Mouthcoating but not oily.

The finish is long, deep and dark. Warming. Rich cocoa and Ethiopian coffee. This is beautifully balanced and everything harmonizes. It has an old-fashioned dark richness to it, like you are in an old leather chair by a burning fire in your oak-furnished library. The blending of this is fantastic. Absolutely one of my favourite Scotches of late. Thankfully, the Binny's in downtown Chicago has the 40 year old. Also thankfully, my ex-wife has agreed to grab me a bottle on her way back....stay tuned for that review!

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