Tullibardine 500 Sherry Cask Finish | Whisky Review
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: Tullibardine Distillery, located in the Highlands of Scotland.
- Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
- Distillation & Maturation: Finished in 500-liter Sherry casks, specifically Sherry butts, for a period of 12 months. The whisky is uncolored.
- Age Statement: No age statement provided.
- Color & Clarity: Described as having a wonderful Sherry color, indicating a rich, deep hue.
- Bottle Design: Not specifically described, but the focus is on the content and the cask finish.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- Balance of Flavors: The whisky is noted for its balance, with no overpowering elements from start to finish.
- Unique Characteristics: The finishing in Sherry casks imparts a significant Sherry note, alongside flavors of apple, toffee, chocolate, and honey. The apple flavor is likened to very red apples with a flowery consistency.
- Comparison: Not directly compared to other whiskies, but its flavor profile is distinct due to the Sherry cask finish.
Whisky Storytelling
- Distillery History: Tullibardine has a rich history, with a notable visit from King James IV in 1488. The site transitioned from a brewery to a distillery post-World War II in 1947.
- Recent Developments: The distillery underwent renovations and added a bottling line around 2014. It was sold in 2014 but had reopened earlier in 2003 after a period of closure.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- Location: The distillery's proximity to a major highway (A97) makes it a prominent landmark in the Highlands. It's housed in a building that was once a supermarket.
- Historical Anecdote: King James IV's purchase of beer in 1488 at the site, documented through historical records, ties the distillery to Scottish royalty and history.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- "Wonderful aftertaste, so the mixture, the balance really good." - Praise for the whisky's balanced flavor profile.
- "It's round, it's flavorsome, it's very sweet, it's nice, it's a pleasant whisky." - Comments on the whisky's enjoyable taste.
- "That's a dangerous whisky." - Referring to how easily and enjoyably one can consume it.
Summary
- Tullibardine 500 Sherry Cask Finish is a no-age-statement single malt Scotch whisky, finished in 500-liter Sherry casks.
- It features a balanced flavor profile with notes of apple, toffee, chocolate, and honey, enhanced by the Sherry cask finish.
- The distillery has a rich history, including a notable visit from King James IV in 1488.
- The whisky is praised for its balance, pleasant taste, and the danger of it being too enjoyable to sip.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring the effects of Sherry cask finishing on whisky will find this bottle intriguing.
- For History Buffs: Individuals fascinated by the historical aspects of whisky production, especially in Scotland, will appreciate the rich backstory of Tullibardine.
- For Casual Drinkers: Its pleasant and balanced flavor profile makes it accessible and enjoyable, even for those not typically inclined towards whisky.