Cutty Sark 12 Year Old

Cutty Sark is name of the British clipper, as it has been depicted on the label since 1955. The blend was designed originally by Berry Brothers & Rudd on the 20th of March 1923. We are trying the 12 Year Old, but from a 1989 bottling at 43% (as opposed to today’s 40%). So this has been in the bottle for a quarter of a century almost. Even then Glenrothes was the signature malt in this blend.

The nose is light and fruity, but expressive. Malt, toffee, apples and oranges, supported by vanilla a mildly toasted oak. Touches of grass and even freesias.

The attack is soft, with grains and loads of sweetness in the form of caramel and vanilla. A bit zesty too, like lime peel. Hints of nuts. Softly peppered too. Quite nice!

The finish is somewhat short, but nutty and spicy. Mildly drying.

Well, this works well as an aperitif in summer. Clearly underrated blend if you ask me (although I cannot Judge current bottlings).

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