Single cask Tullibardine distilled on 24th March 2005 and matured for 12 years in a 2nd fill ex-Bourbon barrel. One of 191 bottles. Spicy & Dry profile.
Nose: Rhubarb custard is certainly present as promised by the SMWS tasting description, as are juicy lemons and some earthy exotic spicing – nutmeg and garam masala. Almost rhubarb custard meets Tarka dal. The addition of water brings out a super creamy, spicy rice pudding like characteristic.
Taste: Creamy, fruity and spicy. Toffee and fudge are joined by buttery biscuits, fresh red berries, preserved lemons and blackberries. Spicing is still prominent with ginger and nutmeg. Water enhances the berries and adds real weight and creaminess alongside more pronounced oak.
Finish: Medium to long (lengthened further with dilution), creamy custard and earthy spices.
This Tullibardine can’t make up it's mind whether it wants to be a sweet dessert or a spicy main course – and it’s all the better for it. Really interesting flavours integrate together nicely and a creamy and yet spicy whisky that really comes to life with a few drops of water.