GlenAllachie 12 Year Old

GlenAllachie emerges as a beacon of innovation among the new breed of distilleries, marrying forward-thinking approaches with decades of expertise. Acquired in 2017 by master distiller Billy Walker and his partners, GlenAllachie embarked on a transformative journey, transitioning from a producer primarily catering to blends to establishing its own distinguished core range of whiskies. At the heart of this evolution lies the GlenAllachie 12-Year-Old, a cornerstone expression that has propelled the distillery to newfound heights of success.

Bottle

Elegance meets distinction in the striking presentation of the GlenAllachie 12-Year-Old. The vivid purple accents of the label are impossible to miss, set against a bottle shape that exudes sturdiness and solidity—my personal favourite profile. While the foil detailing on the neck adds a touch of beauty, I can’t help but feel a subtle enhancement in the gold lettering could have further elevated the label's allure, enhancing its impact against the regal purple backdrop.

Colour

A deep, mahogany hue greets the eye, captivating with its richness and depth, achieved entirely naturally. The juxtaposition of this intense colour against the vibrant purple label renders the GlenAllachie 12-Year-Old a standout choice, defying the conventions of your typical Speyside whisky.

Nose - The aroma of dried fruit envelops the senses, evoking memories of indulgent Christmas pudding, with a richness that surpasses its counterparts. A subtle hint of coconut intertwines with the sweetness, offering a delightful experience that invites exploration.

Palate - On the palate, the essence of Christmas pudding unfolds, complemented by a luscious chocolatey undertone that delights the taste buds. With each sip, the interplay of rich, sweet dried fruits and decadent dark chocolate intensifies, balanced by a touch of citrus fruit that ensures a harmonious, not overly weighty, experience.

Finish - A medium to long finish lingers, as the chocolatey notes gradually yield to a medley of spicy nuances, characterised by hints of clove and pepper, leaving a satisfying warmth in its wake.

Overall

While perhaps not yet a household name, GlenAllachie's 12-Year-Old expression stands as a testament to the expertise and vision of its custodians. The culmination of their efforts is evident in this magnificent core expression, which, though priced at a premium compared to its peers, offers a tasting experience that is truly worth savouring. As GlenAllachie continues to make waves in the whisky world, this expression undoubtedly merits a place among the discerning aficionado's collection.

Available from Master of Malt for around £48, or check price and availability at Amazon