Tomatin Twelve Year Old

Tomatin Twelve Year Old: A Highland Single Malt Whisky Unveiled

The Tomatin Twelve Year Old is the cornerstone of the Tomatin distillery's core range. This Highland single malt scotch whisky embodies the classic characteristics the Speyside region is renowned for: smoothness, delicate fruit notes, and a touch of honeyed sweetness. Aged for twelve years in a combination of ex-bourbon and ex- sherry casks, the Tomatin Twelve Year Old offers a delightful complexity that belies its approachable nature.

Aroma:

The first impression on the nose is a captivating interplay between sweet and savoury notes. Fresh orchard fruits like apples and pears take centre stage, their vibrancy accentuated by hints of citrus zest, particularly lemon and orange peel. As the whisky opens up, a subtle layer of honey emerges, adding a touch of floral sweetness. This is interwoven with a hint of heather, a characteristic note often found in Highland whiskies, that lends a touch of earthy complexity. Beneath this lies a whisper of wood spice, hinting at the influence of the oak casks during maturation.

Palate:

The initial sip delivers a burst of fresh fruit flavours, mirroring the aromas. Juicy apples and pears mingle with a touch of zesty orange, creating a lively and refreshing character. This vibrancy is complemented by a subtle honeyed sweetness that coats the tongue pleasantly. As the whisky develops on the palate, a creamy texture emerges, hinting at the influence of the ex-bourbon casks. Hints of vanilla bean and baking spice, like cinnamon and nutmeg, add a touch of warmth. The subtle oak influence from the maturation becomes more apparent here, with hints of toasted wood and gentle tannins adding a touch of structure.

Finish:

The finish of the Tomatin Twelve Year Old is clean and lingering. The sweetness of the fruit and honey gradually fades, leaving behind a warming sensation of spice and wood. A touch of oak lingers on the tongue, alongside a hint of the citrus zest that initially appeared on the nose. This creates a balanced and satisfying conclusion to the tasting experience.

Serving Suggestions:

The Tomatin Twelve Year Old's versatility makes it a perfect whisky to enjoy neat, on the rocks, or in a well-crafted cocktail. Here are a few suggestions to elevate your experience:

• Neat: Pour a measure of Tomatin Twelve Year Old into a tumbler glass or Glencairn whisky glass. Allow it to rest for a few minutes to allow the aromas to develop. Swirl the glass gently and appreciate the colour before taking a sip. Savor the full flavour profile by taking small sips and allowing the whisky to coat your tongue.
• On the Rocks: For a slightly cooler and more refreshing experience, serve the Tomatin Twelve Year Old over a single large ice cube. The ice will slowly melt, diluting the whisky slightly and releasing its flavours gradually.
• Tomatin & Tonic: This simple highball cocktail is a fantastic way to showcase the Tomatin Twelve Year Old's lighter characteristics. Fill a highball glass with ice, add a measure of Tomatin Twelve Year Old, and top with chilled tonic water. Garnish with a wedge of orange for a touch of citrus zest.
• Highland Sour: This twist on the classic Whisky Sour combines the Tomatin Twelve Year Old with zesty lemon and a touch of sweetness. In a shaker filled with ice, combine a measure of Tomatin Twelve Year Old, freshly squeezed lemon juice, a teaspoon of sugar, and a dash of egg white (optional). Shake well and strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Food Pairing:

The Tomatin Twelve Year Old's balanced flavour profile makes it a great companion to a variety of foods. Here are some suggested pairings:

• Cheese: Creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert complement the Tomatin Twelve Year Old's creamy texture and honeyed sweetness.
• Fruit:  A plate of fresh fruit like apples, pears, or grapes enhances the whisky's fruity notes.
• Seafood:  The Tomatin Twelve Year Old pairs well with light and flavourful seafood dishes like smoked salmon or grilled fish.
• Desserts: The whisky's sweetness makes it a suitable accompaniment to desserts that are not overly rich or sugary. Try it with fruit tarts, crème brûlée, or shortbread cookies.

In Conclusion:

The Tomatin Twelve Year Old is a superb introduction to the world of Highland single malt whiskies. Its smooth texture, approachable flavour profile, and touch of complexity make it a crowd-pleaser. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, the Tomatin Twelve Year Old offers a delightful and satisfying whisky experience. So, raise a glass and explore the inviting world of Tomatin.