Mannochmore Twelve Year Old

Mannochmore Twelve Year Old: A Speyside Delight

The Mannochmore Twelve Year Old is a single malt Scotch whisky hailing from the famed Speyside region. Nestled amongst rolling hills and drawing its water from the Barden Burn, this expression offers a light, smooth, and undeniably delightful dram. Aged for twelve years in traditional oak casks, the Mannochmore Twelve Year Old emerges with a character that is both approachable and intriguing.

On the Nose:

The initial impression is one of sweetness and gentle malt. Hints of fresh green apples mingle with subtle grassy notes, offering a touch of springtime vibrancy. As the whisky opens up, a touch of vanilla emerges, adding a touch of creamy richness. This is followed by a whisper of ginger, adding a hint of peppery warmth.  Intriguingly, some find a very subtle note of mint in the background, adding a touch of unexpected freshness.

It's worth noting that some palates may detect a touch of sulphur in the aroma. This is not uncommon in certain whiskies and can present itself as a slight "brimstone" character.  However, for many, this subtle note simply adds to the complexity of the dram.

On the Palate:

The Mannochmore Twelve Year Old delivers a surprisingly clean and refreshing experience. The initial burst of flavour is light and fruity, with hints of citrus and orchard fruits like pear and apple. A pleasant acidity cuts through the sweetness, creating a well-balanced and mouthwatering character.  As the whisky develops, notes of vanilla and ginger from the nose return, offering a touch of creamy warmth and subtle spice. The influence of the oak casks becomes apparent with a hint of tannin, adding a touch of dryness to the finish.

The Finish:

The Mannochmore Twelve Year Old boasts a surprisingly dry finish for a Speyside whisky. The initial sweetness gives way to a lingering hint of almond and a touch of oaky tannin. This dryness is not astringent but rather adds a touch of sophistication and prevents the dram from being cloying. The finish is of moderate length, allowing the various flavours to linger pleasantly on the palate.

Serving Suggestions:

The Mannochmore Twelve Year Old is a versatile dram that can be enjoyed in a number of ways. Here are a few suggestions to get the most out of this Speyside single malt:

• Neat: This is the classic way to enjoy any whisky, and it's a great way to appreciate the full complexity of the Mannochmore Twelve Year Old. Simply pour a measure into a traditional whisky glass and savour the aromas and flavours.
• With a Drop of Water: Adding a small amount of water can help to open up the whisky and reveal some of its more subtle notes. Experiment with a few drops at a time until you find the perfect dilution for your preference.
• On the Rocks: Enjoying the Mannochmore Twelve Year Old on the rocks is a great option for those who prefer a slightly chilled dram. Be sure to use large, slow-melting ice cubes to avoid watering down the whisky too quickly.

Food Pairings:

The Mannochmore Twelve Year Old's light and fruity character makes it a great partner for a variety of foods. Here are a few suggestions:

• Cheese: Creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert pair beautifully with the Mannochmore Twelve Year Old. The sweetness of the whisky cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a delightful harmony.
• Fruit: Fresh fruits like apples, pears, and grapes complement the fruity notes in the whisky.
• Seafood: Lighter seafood dishes like smoked salmon or oysters can be a great match for the Mannochmore Twelve Year Old. The whisky's acidity helps to cleanse the palate after each bite.
• Desserts: The Mannochmore Twelve Year Old can also be enjoyed with lighter desserts like fruit crumble or vanilla ice cream. The sweetness of the dessert will echo the sweetness in the whisky, creating a satisfying end to the meal.

Overall:

The Mannochmore Twelve Year Old is a delightful Speyside single malt whisky that offers a wonderful introduction to the world of single malts. Its light, smooth, and approachable character makes it a great choice for both novice and experienced whisky drinkers alike. With its intriguing complexity and surprising dryness, the Mannochmore Twelve Year Old is a whisky that is sure to leave a lasting impression.