Old Pulteney Single Malt Scotch Whisky Aged 21 Years
46% ABV/92 Proof
$110 to $130
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What the Distillery Says:
As with the 17-year-old, with this expression we marry together Old Pulteney matured in ex-bourbon wood with spirit from ex-sherry wood casks. The crucial difference, however, is that the ex-sherry wood in this case is made from American Oak (mostly Fino sherries). This adds yet another layer of complexity, depth and character to this truly superb malt whisky.
Colour: Golden amber with straw highlights.
Nose: Full bodied with traces of fruits (apples and pears); slightly fragrant with spicy overtones.
Palate: Sweet to start with a light fruitiness; hints of honey and vanilla followed by a dry finish.
What Richard Says:
Nose: Smoked oysters, granny smith apples, bailed hay.
Palate: Very dry with notes of oranges and grains.
Finish: Pleasantly smoky with a hint brine laying over a base of polished wood. Long after the glass is empty there’s a aftertaste that reminds me of sashimi, iceberg lettuce, and smoked salmon.
Comments: I’ve never made Old Pulteney a consistent personal dram. I’ve had various expressions over the years and some I liked, others not. Of all the ones I’ve had this expression is my least favorite. I’m a little sorry I started Old Pulteney reviews with this one but it was the sample I was sent. In the $100 plus range of scotch there are a lot of great drams. Unfortunately, this isn’t one of them.
Rating: Average
I would like to thank Lucas with Alembic Communications Ltd for providing a sample for review.