Old Perth Sherry Cask

Old Perth is a brand that goes back to the early 1990s when it was created by the Thomson family in Perth. It disappeared in the 1970s but was brought back to life as a blended malt in 2013 by independent bottlers Morrison & Mackay (of the Càrn Mòr brand among others).

The Old Perth Sherry Cask is a 2015 addition to the range, alongside a peaty expression. It is composed from sherry hogsheads, puncheons and butts. The internet tells me the whisky comes from Glentauchers and Speyside distillery, but I’ve seen other names as well, so take this with a pinch of salt. In any case there seem to be at least two batches, but the Whisky Advent Calendar from Master of Malt doesn’t tell me which one I’m trying (perhaps the first one then?)

Old Perth Sherry Cask
(43%, OB +/- 2016, blended malt)

Nose: very dusty nose, with herbal notes, something of sour grains and hints of Ovaltine. Rather winey sherry, with red berries and some dates in the background. There’s a vague metallic / coppery scent and some sweet and sour sherry vinegar (which fades). Mezquite wood? Some sulphur. Not a classic sherry nose.

Mouth: again a slightly strange mix of sweet, sour and woody flavours. Some milk chocolate and honey, but with a peppery kick, some herbal notes and a musty edge. Not my style.

Finish: on the short side, with ginger, oak, herbs and a little cocoa.

Most whiskies have ups and downs, but this Old Perth just couldn’t please me. It only costs € 30 or so, and people will say you can’t blame a fully sherry matured whisky at this price level, but still I’d spend a bit more and get rid of the quirky notes.

Score: 68/100