Last Updated on: 11th June 2024, 01:03 am
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover everything about the Aberlour 12 in this in-depth review that answers all your related questions!
Reviewed by: J Highland
Aberlour 12: Everyday Speyside Dram with Reliable Smoothness
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
The Aberlour 12 year old single malt Scotch whisky prioritizes drinkability and value, making it a fantastic choice for everyday enjoyment.
Strengths:
- Smooth and Approachable: This Speyside malt offers a welcoming profile free of harshness, perfect for both seasoned whisky drinkers and those new to the world of single malts.
- Balanced Flavor: Despite lacking overwhelming complexity, the Aberlour 12 delivers a pleasant and satisfying taste experience.
- Great Value: The combination of smooth character and affordable price point makes the Aberlour 12 a reliable go-to dram for any occasion.
- Stylish Presentation: The attractive bottle design adds a touch of elegance to your home bar collection.
Possible Weaknesses:
- Less Complex Flavor Profile: For whisky enthusiasts seeking highly intricate drams, the Aberlour 12 might come across as a bit one-dimensional.
Verdict:
The Aberlour 12 year old is a dependable Speyside single malt that excels in smoothness and affordability.
Its well-balanced taste and approachable nature make it a great choice for everyday sipping or casual gatherings.
While complexity might not be its focus, it delivers a consistent and enjoyable drinking experience, all at a budget-friendly price.
The attractive bottle adds a touch of class to your home bar collection, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
- Related: Top Ranked 12 Year Single Malts
- Learn more: Aberlour 12 Website
What’s special about the Aberlour 12?
Aberlour 12 is a single malt Scotch that undergoes maturation in a unique combination of American oak ex-bourbon barrels and ex-Sherry casks, resulting in its double cask character.
It is bottled at a modest 80-proof (40% ABV).
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Honey, toffee, vanilla, pear
- Palate: Caramel, apple, citrus
- Finish: Spicy oak, roasted nuts
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Aberfeldy 12
The nose of Aberlour 12 is delightful, with prominent notes of raisin, baking spice, and charred oak.
When tasted, Aberlour delivers a better texture than what the low proof suggests, offering a pleasant mouthfeel.
The initial spiciness on the palate is well-balanced, accompanied by caramel, nutmeg, and charred oak flavors.
The finish is satisfying, with hints of bitter chocolate, cinnamon, and a consistent presence of charred oak throughout.
Aberlour 12 FAQ
Is Aberlour 12 smoky?
- No, Aberlour 12 is known for its smooth, smoke-free taste with a hint of oak.
- A perfect option for those who prefer a lighter Speyside malt.
How to drink
- Traditionally enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to enhance the aroma and flavors.
Alternatives
- Offers a more complex flavor profile compared to Glenlivet 12 and Glenfiddich 12.
- Considered a good value option compared to Macallan 12 Double Cask.
Is Aberlour 12 chill-filtered?
- Yes, Aberlour 12 is chill-filtered, a standard process in the industry.
- The impact on flavor is minimal for most drinkers.
Does Aberlour 12 use caramel coloring?
- Yes, Aberlour 12 uses caramel coloring, which is permitted but not preferred by all whisky enthusiasts.
Is Aberlour 12 good for beginners?
- Glenlivet 12 and Glenfiddich 12 might be easier starting points due to their very smooth taste profile.
Aging:
- Matured in ex-bourbon barrels and ex-sherry casks for at least 12 years.
- This combination results in a well-rounded flavor profile with hints of oak, sherry, and fruit.
Alcohol content:
- Bottled at 40% ABV (80 proof).
Does Aberlour 12 expire?
- When stored properly, Aberlour 12 will last for several years.
- It’s best to consume the remaining 25% sooner to avoid flavor changes.
How did I review Aberlour 12?
I run a pub and a liquor store, granting me extensive access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller.
My evaluations include my insights and feedback from customers and patrons and whiskey expert opinions from Neil Coleman who has been for decades in the liquor business.
I also corroborate my views with online research to ensure accuracy.
Our ratings are determined primarily by four key factors: aroma, taste, finish, and value for money. While we do consider packaging, it is of lesser importance to us, as we prioritize the quality of the liquid inside over the aesthetics of the bottle.
⭐ – Poor, ⭐⭐ – Average, ⭐⭐⭐ – Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Very Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent.
Aberlour 12: Specs
| Type of Whisky | Single Malt |
| Age statement | 12Y |
| Proof | 80 |
| ABV | 40% |
| Is it good? | Yes |
| Is it top-shelf? | No |
| Does it expire? | No |
| Sweet? | Moderately |
| Warm? | No |
| Peaty? | No |
| Good for beginners? | Not the best |
| Good for cocktails? | No |
| Good with Coke? | No |
| Calories per shot | 108 |
| Gluten-free | Yes |
| Keto-friendly | Yes |
| Kosher | No |