Whisky Review: Tamdhu 12 Year at 43% abv; $74 — at $74.99, the question is whether it delivers on its promise. I sat down with a pour to find out.
Nose
Straw, with the slightest hint of copper.
Palate
Figs and fresh fruit it is a little intoxicating. Diving a little deeper there are sweet, bread type desserts like yellow cake. There is some evident sherry influence on the back end ,with touches of red wine. A tart puckering start with charcoal and peat smoke. It evolves into red fruit over the palate, with some residual sugar sweetness across the tongue. The body has a medium oily quality to it, almost syrupy in the mouth. As we encroach on the finish we are greeted with a nice dry oak and red wine finish. The sherry comes shining through. The whole profile is delicate, while maintaining enough structure to be complex. This is delightful and exactly where you want a 12-year expression. The flavors are easy to identify, there are plenty of them to find, and the profile evolves across each sip appropriately. I found this to be nicely balanced with each flavor while maintaining approachability.rnrnSometimes a young Scotch wants to be too mellow or hits with too many flavors that are softened with age. This hits a wonderful sweet spot, and there is plenty to enjoy for every level of Scotch drinker. As far as starting expressions go, this is very good.
Finish
Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by Whiskeyful or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.
The Bottom Line
Whisky Review: Tamdhu 12 Year is outstanding — one of those bottles that reminds you why you fell in love with whiskey in the first place. If you see it at $74.99, do not hesitate. This one earns a permanent spot on the shelf.
