Cragganmore 12 Year Old Whisky Review

ABV: 40%
Price: £45.65

Whisky lovers, gather round for a sip of the Scottish Highlands with a review of Cragganmore 12 Year Old. Nestled in the Speyside region, Cragganmore brings tradition and a solid reputation to the table, or in this case, the glass.

First Impressions

Unboxing the Cragganmore 12 Year Old, you're greeted with a classic bottle design that whispers elegance rather than shouts. It's all about subtlety here. The golden-amber hue of the whisky promises a warm and inviting experience.

Flavour Profile

Bringing the glass to your nose, the aroma is a gentle blend of floral notes, a hint of fruit, and a wisp of smoke. It's like a serene walk through an orchard with a distant bonfire on the breeze.

As for the taste, the first sip coats your palate with a smooth, malty sweetness. There's a complexity here that unfolds leisurely. You'll detect layers of fruitiness, think of green apples and ripe pears, followed by a nutty richness that might remind you of almond or walnut. The finish is where the smoke returns, a gentle reminder of its presence, accompanied by a mild spiciness that lingers pleasantly.

Value for Money

At around £45, Cragganmore 12 Year Old sits comfortably in the mid-range price bracket for single malts. For a whisky of this age and complexity, it's fair to say that it offers good value for money. It's not the cheapest bottle you'll find, but it delivers a quality drinking experience that justifies the price tag.

Comparisons and Brand Info

Cragganmore is often lauded for its balanced character, making it a versatile dram alongside other Speyside classics like Glenfiddich 12 or Balvenie DoubleWood 12. Each has its own personality, but Cragganmore's distinctive style is less about the punchy fruit and more about the interplay of subtlety and smoke.

As for the brand, Cragganmore has a history dating back to 1869, and it's respected for sticking to traditional distillation methods. Their stills, with their unique flat tops, are said to contribute to the whisky's complexity and refined taste.

Approachability

Whether you're a newbie to the whisky world or a seasoned sipper, Cragganmore 12 Year Old is an approachable dram. It won't overpower you with peat or alcohol burn, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore beyond entry-level offerings.

Summary

Cragganmore 12 Year Old is a harmonious symphony of flavors that respects its Highland roots. It's a whisky that doesn't need to rely on a high ABV to impress; it's all about the finesse. With its fair price, delightful complexities, and smooth finish, this is certainly a bottle to be enjoyed slowly, savoring each nuanced sip.

Rating: 4/5

Summary: Cragganmore 12 Year Old is a testament to Speyside sophistication. It's not a whisky that will shake the earth beneath you but rather one that will gently guide you through the rolling hills of traditional Scotch flavors. Good value, intriguing complexity, and a smooth finish make this a solid 4 out of 5.