Glenkinchie 12 years old review and tasting notes of a typical Lowland single malt whisky
The Glenkinchie 12-Year-Old is a single malt whisky typical of the Lowlands, indeed, we can say that as a base product, it is the perfect synthesis. The malt’s herbaceous and biscuit notes dominate, accompanied by a sharp fruit reminiscent of apples and an uninterrupted, but soft, sequence of spices: there are, but they are delicate.
And then you will find a subtle finesse that pervades this Scotch. A thread of peat gives body, a good green tannin that reminds me of walnut, herbs and flowers in the finish, and so the circle is complete.
It’s not a muscular whiskey; it’s not the pulpy, medicinal whiskey that has given sherry its identity; but it’s a pleasant whiskey, flowing and with that lowland delicacy that never wears off. Don’t ask him for the moon, and Glenkinchie 12 won’t let you down.
How is Glenkinchie 12-year-old single malt made?
Classic production, as required by the Lowlands, but beware: this distillate does not come from a triple distillation and does not age in sherry wood, only ex-bourbon wood. The philosophy of the Glenkinchie distillery is quite clear and if they have been distilling whisky since 1837, they know how to do their job.
The purity of the malt is important to Glenkinchie, so much so that the barley is grown at home in the hills of the East Lothian region, not far from Edinburgh. This is why it is called the Edinburgh Distillery.
Organoleptic characteristics of Glenkinchie 12 years old whisky
Clean, crystalline nose where malt, flowers, herbs, and a faint gust of smoke chase each other. Butterscotch, vanilla, and walnuts in the background: everything is declinated for precision, framed by scents of orange peel to give a minimum of freshness. Peppered finish with beeswax and honey. It is not disturbing or sumptuous, but, on the contrary, distinct and succinct. It does not unbutton.
On the palate, it is dry, clear, clean fruit; malt is evident; there is a delicate floral and herbaceous development with a smoky edge to give rhythm. It’s docile, pungent just enough to not be predictable, but don’t expect a grandiose fresco. Tasty and dry finish of dried fruit.
In summary, this 12-year-old, which is the base whiskey for large volumes of the Glenkinchie distillery, does its duty, without overdoing it, while offering decent quality.
Price of the Glenkinchie 12-year single malt whisky
44–47 euros: an honest price, we are talking about a minimum wage for a 12-year-old single malt whiskey. The thickness and purity of the malt are good and justify the expense.
Food Pairings
Salmon terrines, brisket and pulled pork, chocolate salami, blueberry cheesecake, chocolate truffles.
