Blair Athol Twelve Year Old Highland Single Malt Whisky

Blair Athol 12 Year Old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky: A Rich and Rewarding Dram

The Blair Athol 12 Year Old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a hidden gem from one of Scotland's oldest working distilleries. Established in 1798 in the picturesque town of Pitlochry, Blair Athol is the "spiritual home" of Bell's Blended Whisky, but this single malt bottling offers a unique opportunity to experience the character of their spirit in its unblended form. Aged for twelve years in ex-sherry casks, the Blair Athol 12 Year Old delivers a rich and rewarding drinking experience, perfect for both seasoned whisky enthusiasts and curious newcomers.

Nose:

The first impression on the nose is a wave of warm, malty sweetness. Hints of honey, vanilla, and toasted biscuit mingle with a gentle oakiness, suggesting subtle vanilla pod and baking spices. As the whisky opens up, deeper notes emerge, revealing dried fruits like raisin and prune, along with a hint of citrus peel that adds a touch of vibrancy. The influence of sherry cask maturation becomes apparent with a whisper of dried fig and a touch of cinnamon, creating a complex and inviting aroma.

Palate:

The Blair Athol 12 Year Old enters the palate with a smooth, medium-bodied texture. The malty sweetness from the nose translates beautifully, coating the tongue with a luxurious honeyed character. The influence of the sherry cask then takes centre stage, with flavours of dried fruit cake, rich raisin, and a hint of stewed plum. Hints of baking spice like nutmeg and ginger add further complexity, while subtle oaky tannins provide a pleasant dryness that balances the sweetness. The overall impression is one of richness and depth, yet it remains surprisingly balanced and approachable.

Finish:

The finish of the Blair Athol 12 Year Old is medium-length and lingers pleasantly on the tongue. The malty sweetness persists, interwoven with hints of dried fruit and gentle oak spice. A subtle touch of warming ginger adds a touch of heat, which gradually fades into a dry and satisfying conclusion.

Serving Suggestions:

To fully appreciate the character of the Blair Athol 12 Year Old, it's best enjoyed neat or on the rocks. Neat allows the full spectrum of flavours to come through, while a single ice cube can help to open up the spirit and reveal some of the more subtle notes. For a touch of added complexity, a splash of cool water can also be effective.

This whisky also pairs well with a variety of foods.  Consider these options:

• Cheese: Creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert complement the malty sweetness and dried fruit notes. A mature cheddar with a bit of bite can stand up to the richness of the whisky.
• Chocolate: Dark chocolate with a high cocoa content is an excellent pairing. The bitterness of the chocolate cuts through the sweetness of the whisky, while the chocolate's flavour profile can echo some of the dried fruit notes.
• Desserts: Fruit-based desserts like pear tart or apple crumble pair well with the Blair Athol 12 Year Old. The sweetness of the dessert complements the whisky without overpowering it, and the fruit flavours can create an interesting harmony.

Overall:

The Blair Athol 12 Year Old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a delightful dram that offers excellent value for money. Its rich malty character, balanced sweetness, and subtle sherry influence make it a crowd-pleaser that will appeal to a wide range of palates. Whether you're a seasoned whisky drinker or just starting to explore the world of single malts, the Blair Athol 12 Year Old is a rewarding choice that is sure to leave a lasting impression.