5 of the best - 12 year old whiskies for 2024
Welcome, whisky enthusiasts, to the heartland of the Scottish whisky industry—the realm of twelve-year-old whiskies. While legally, whisky must age for a minimum of three years, it's the twelve-year mark that truly embodies the pinnacle of maturity and flavour development. This age bracket represents a sweet spot where complexity meets affordability, making it a favourite among connoisseurs and novices alike.
Nearly every distillery boasts an entry whisky in this category, showcasing their craftsmanship and dedication to the art of maturation. Join me as I unveil some of my favourite bottles that have been patiently aging in casks for at least twelve years, each offering a unique journey through the rich tapestry of Scottish whisky.
The one for everyone
Balvenie 12 DoubleWood
We begin our exploration with the Balvenie 12 year old DoubleWood, a testament to the distillery's unwavering commitment to tradition and quality. This expression, aged in both traditional oak casks and sherry casks, boasts a harmonious blend of honeyed sweetness, rich vanilla, and subtle spices. The result is a whisky that exudes elegance and sophistication with every sip, leaving a lasting impression on the palate. This is a must have for any whisky drinker, the icon in this set. Read more here.
Available from Master of Malt for around £45, or check price and availability at Amazon
The one for the extravagant
Dalmore 12 Year Old
Next on our journey is the Dalmore 12 Year Old, a whisky that captures the essence of the Scottish Highlands in every drop. This expression showcases the distillery's signature style with its unique bottle shape and stag’s head. The whisky itself exhibits notes of chocolate, orange peel, and a hint of spice. With its luxurious palate and velvety texture, the Dalmore 12 offers a truly indulgent whisky experience that is sure to delight the senses.
Available from Master of Malt for around £55-£60, or check price and availability at Amazon
The one for the more cost conscious
Aberfeldy 12 Year Old
Venture into the heart of Highland whisky with Aberfeldy 12 Year Old, a golden elixir that embodies the spirit of its picturesque surroundings. This expression enchants the palate with flavours of honey, caramelised fruits, and a touch of oak, creating a warm and inviting whisky that is perfect for sipping by the fireside on a cold winter's night.
Available from Master of Malt for under £40, or check price and availability at Amazon
The one for that’s a little different
Glenkinchie 12 Year Old
Transport yourself to the gentle hills of the Lowlands with Glenkinchie 12 Year Old, a whisky that epitomises Lowland sophistication. Known for its light and floral character, this expression delights the senses with delicate notes of fresh grass, citrus, and a hint of vanilla. The Glenkinchie 12 is a refreshing and elegant whisky that is perfect for those seeking a lighter, more delicate dram. Read more here
Available from Master of Malt for around £40, or check price and availability at Amazon
The one for me!
Aberlour 12 Year Old
Our journey culminates in the heart of Speyside with Aberlour 12 Year Old, a whisky that showcases the rich and robust flavours of the region. This expression is characterised by its deep and complex profile, featuring notes of sherry, dried fruits, and a hint of cinnamon. With its velvety smoothness and lingering finish, the Aberlour 12 is a true masterpiece of Speyside whisky craftsmanship - and if you haven’t guessed - my favourite! Read more here.
Available from Master of Malt for around £40, or check price and availability at Amazon
Summary
In the world of whisky, few things are as rewarding as discovering a well-aged gem that captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression. The five whiskies featured in this guide represent some of the finest examples of twelve-year-old Scotch whisky, each offering a unique expression of the distillery's style and heritage. Whether you prefer the honeyed sweetness of Balvenie, the Highland majesty of Dalmore, the golden allure of Aberfeldy, the Lowland sophistication of Glenkinchie, or the Speyside splendour of Aberlour, there's a twelve-year-old whisky waiting to be savoured and enjoyed. So raise your glasses and toast to the magic of maturation—the journey is just beginning. Cheers!