Linkwood 12 Years

Whisky Review/Tasting: Linkwood 12 Years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

  • Origin: Linkwood Distillery, located on the River Lossie close to Elgin in Speyside, Scotland.
  • Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
  • Distillation & Maturation: Aged for 12 years, details on distillation and specific maturation processes are not provided, but the whisky is part of the Flora and Fauna series, indicating a selection of casks by the distillery itself.
  • Age Statement: 12 years.
  • Color & Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the whisky is noted as full-bodied.
  • Bottle Design: Part of the Flora and Fauna series, featuring uniform packaging across the series with distinct animals and plants on the label. Linkwood's label showcases a pair of swans.

Whisky Flavor Profile

  • General Taste: Full-bodied with a hint of sweetness and a slightly smoky aroma.
  • Balance of Flavors: A balance between maltiness, fruitiness, and a hint of smoke.
  • Unique Characteristics: Notable for its intense citrus fruit and unusual rose leaf oil or rose water notes, which are said to be very untypical.
  • Comparison: As a Speyside whisky, it embodies the region's characteristic fruitiness and maltiness, with an added unique twist of citrus and rose notes.

Whisky Storytelling

  • Distillery History: Established in 1821, the Linkwood Distillery has retained its traditional atmosphere and has always taken great care to safeguard the character of its whisky.
  • Flora and Fauna Series: This series represents distilleries under Diageo that typically don't have individual distillery bottlings. The series features uniform packaging with distinct flora and fauna on each label, representing the distillery's connection to its natural surroundings.

Cultural or Geographical Significance

  • Speyside Identity: Located in Speyside, the whisky embodies the typical characteristics of the region, known for its malt whisky and fruitiness. The distillery's location on the River Lossie and its long history contribute to its traditional Speyside identity.

Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes

  • "Linkwood is one of the finest single malt Scotch whiskies available."
  • "Very interesting, intense citrus fruit and then some rose leaf oil, some rose water which is used for the protection of marzipan, very intense note. Very untypical."

Summary

  • Linkwood 12 Years is a Speyside single malt Scotch whisky, aged for 12 years, and part of the Flora and Fauna series by Diageo.
  • It features a full-bodied taste with a hint of sweetness and a slightly smoky aroma, with unique notes of intense citrus fruit and rose leaf oil.
  • The whisky represents the traditional character of the Linkwood Distillery, established in 1821, and embodies the typical characteristics of Speyside whiskies.
  • The Flora and Fauna series highlights the distillery's connection to its natural surroundings, with each label featuring distinct animals and plants.
  • Expert opinions praise the whisky for its fine quality and unique flavor profile.

Recommendations for Different User Profiles

  • Speyside Enthusiasts: Individuals who appreciate the typical maltiness and fruitiness of Speyside whiskies will enjoy the traditional aspects of Linkwood 12 Years.
  • Collectors: Those interested in unique or limited series releases, such as the Flora and Fauna series, will find this whisky appealing for its cultural and historical significance.
  • Adventurous Palates: Drinkers looking for a whisky with unique and untypical notes, such as the intense citrus and rose water flavors, will find Linkwood 12 Years intriguing.