This is my first ever Tomatin. It's a mix of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks. It says "finished" in sherry casks, so who knows what that means? Finished for how long? 2 years? 10 Minutes? Somewhere in between? Well, let's see what this is all about.
- Nose (undiluted): Lovely! Quite surprising given my complete lack of expectations. definitely an Oloroso-type sherry note, red licorice (cherry NIBS), almonds, a bit of vanilla, some hints of oak and barrel char, very reminiscent of Glendronach 12.
- Palate (undiluted): medium bodied, more red fruit, baked apples, more nuttiness
- Finish: short to medium length, vanilla, coconut, pears, a bit of barley sugar, more oak
As this was an easy drinking sample, I didn't see the point in adding water. It's only bottled at 43% abv, and any lower would just be unnecessary. It isn't über-complex, but it's not as bland and predictable as most entry-level offerings. I'm quite surprised and impressed by this malt. At $59 per bottle in Ontario, I'll definitely be purchasing a full bottle.
I love finds like this. Is it in your top 10? No. But it is whisky gold when you unexpectedly find something enjoyable in a bottle you had no expectations for - especially when it is well priced and readily accessible. I've not tried this one myself but I must say that the old bottles are much more appealing on the eye than the new ones.
Nice review, I'm glad to see someone else enjoyed this as well, many of the Tomatin expressions don't get much love.
My brother and I split a bottle of this and Glen Garioch 12 and ended up quite pleased with both. I forgot to bring my half back so haven't got around to reviewing it.