Whisky Review/Tasting: Cragganmore 12 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Speyside, Scotland
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured for 12 years, details on specific cask types used are not mentioned, but ex-bourbon and re-refill casks are implied.
Age Statement: 12 years
Color and Clarity: The presence of artificial color is mentioned, implying a consistent coloration across bottles.
Bottle Design: Traditional design with a card box packaging. The bottle and packaging include quotes from malt whisky writer Michael Jackson, praising its complex aroma.

Balance of Flavors: Described as very balanced, with the taste being an exact representation of the nose and a wonderful, long aftertaste.
Unique Characteristics: Noted for its honey note, fruitiness, toffee, and vanilla on the nose without the intense sherry, smokiness, or oakiness found in some other whiskies. The aftertaste is drier, which some might confuse with smokiness.
Comparison: It's positioned as a definitive Speyside malt, embodying the typical characteristics expected from the region's whiskies.

Distillery: Founded by John Smith in 1869, Cragganmore has a rich history and is nestled into a hillside, making it a picturesque visit. The distillery retains Victorian style coolers and narrow pot stills, contributing to its unique whisky profile.
Classic Malts of Scotland: Cragganmore 12 is part of this collection, which was a marketing effort by the largest Scotch whisky producer to represent different Scottish regions. The collection has evolved to include finished products and rare selections.

Speyside Identity: Cragganmore 12 is highlighted as a quintessential Speyside malt, offering a taste profile that is emblematic of the region. Its inclusion in the Classic Malts of Scotland underscores its representation of Speyside's whisky heritage.

Horst Luening's Opinion: Describes Cragganmore 12 as one of his personal favorites in the Scotch whisky business for its balance and typical Speyside characteristics. He challenges the claim of it having the "most complex aroma" but acknowledges its complexity and appeal.
Michael Jackson's Quote: "For malt whisky writer Michael Jackson, it has the most complex aroma of any malt, astonishingly fresh and delicate."

Cragganmore 12 is a well-balanced, definitive Speyside single malt Scotch whisky, matured for 12 years.
It features a honey note, fruitiness, toffee, and vanilla on the nose, with a dry aftertaste.
Part of the Classic Malts of Scotland, it represents the Speyside region.
The distillery has a rich history and maintains traditional distillation equipment.
Horst Luening appreciates its balance and typical Speyside flavor profile, though he questions the claim of it having the most complex aroma.

Speyside Enthusiasts: Individuals who appreciate the quintessential characteristics of Speyside whiskies will likely enjoy Cragganmore 12 for its balanced and typical regional flavor profile.
Whisky Collectors: Collectors interested in the Classic Malts of Scotland series or those seeking a representative Speyside malt.
Beginners: New whisky drinkers might find Cragganmore 12 accessible due to its balanced flavors and lack of intense smokiness or oakiness.
Value Seekers: At around 30 euros/pounds/dollars, it's considered a bargain for its quality, making it appealing to those looking for high-quality whisky at a reasonable price.