Over to Nairn in the Highlands for a 12 year old Royal Brackla that’s been matured in a refill ex-bourbon hogshead.
Nose: Garden fresh with jasmine, lemon balm, rose hips and lilies. These sit atop of a base of sweetened pear juice, toasted bread, clean cotton and flan bases. In the background, something rather ‘greenhouse’ - warmed vines and green bell peppers. Dilution presents pink wafer biscuits, under ripe raspberries, and crystalline ginger.
Taste: A soft and welcoming entrance that’s patisserie-forward – red berry tarts, pear flans, cream-filled pastries and French crepes. The mid-palate offers building pepperiness which is somewhat offset by golden syrup and buttery bread. Reduction introduced pears tinned in their own juices, hints of crumbled chocolate, berry coulis and dry, singed oak.
Finish: Medium in length and offering orchard and red fruits alongside toasted wood and dry pepperiness.
A well-composed Brackla that delivers an agreeable combination of fresh fruits and florals alongside a animated cask influence which never quite outstays its welcome. Solid.