Macallan 12 Year Old Sherry Oak

Macallan 12 YO. It's hard to believe I've had the 25 but I can't remember ever having tried the 12. It's long gone in Ontario, and I haven't seen it anywhere else in Canada. But what does a cask strength snob like me care about that?

So here I am in Boston and it's one of three Scotches offered at the bar in the dining hall I'm at. I have had and have access to the other 2 so it's a no-brainer. The first dram lasts me a good hour and a half so I get another, a 45 cc pour from the quickly emptying bottle, and while it's not the best glass, and not the best setting, I think I can get enough for a quick review.

The bottle was full when I had my first pour and about half full when I came back an hour and a half later. I added a few drops of water.

On the nose, definite sweet sherry, a mild vegetal note, maybe a hint of sulfur but nothing I mind. A hint of spice. 21.5/25

On the palate a little thinner than I'm used to, but not as I would expect from a 43% whisky. Sweet. Sherry. Spicy. Chocolate for sure. 21.5/25

The finish is quite long. After the last sip I could still feel its presence back in the hotel room. Sweet, slightly astringent. 22/25

Balance is wxcellent. The nose and palate complement each other. Good flavour for 43%. 22/25

Score: 87/100

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This really surprised me. After having enjoyed cask strength sherry bruisers (not today) I was not expecting to enjoy this as much as I did. I hope this means that my palate is maturing and may be able to appreciate more subtle flavours.

I guess it also means I'll need to be more open to lower proof offerimgs in e future, if they are well-recommended...

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