In the glass the whisky is a pale straw color. On the nose, there is vanilla and fruit, indicating used bourbon barrels, with either a small or no percentage of sherry casks. Orange, and apple stand out to me the most. The aromas overall are a little weak and unimpressive. On the palate, the whisky is even less so. Though more pronounced on the tongue compared to the nose, it feels watery and thin. Wood dominates the senses, with vanilla following. More fruit comes in with orange again, and a slight salty feeling.
The finish is really where the 12 Year shines and makes a total 180. The fruity and woody characteristics become smoky on the tongue, with the vanilla morphing into milk chocolate. It could last a little longer but is overall pleasant. The finish will leave you wanting more; until you remember how disappointing the nose and palate are that is. I did add a couple drops of water to the sample as well. In general the whisky came out worse, with a sharp smell, everything feeling ‘tighter’ and more constrained.
Overall the whisky lacks depth, with the woody characteristics dominating, but is decently well rounded. The experience starts out uninspired, but finishes on a strong note.
