Old Pulteney 15 Years is a new expression, part of the 2018 overhaul of the core range. Check my review of the newish Old Pulteney 12 Years for more information.
The 15 Years is matured in first and second fill bourbon barrels and finished in Oloroso sherry butts.
Old Pulteney 15 yo (46%, OB 2018)
Nose: a fresh and rather recognizable Pulteney nose, full of yellow apples, barley notes and heather honey with a lovely coastal side. Sea breeze, pine wood and mint. Soft vanilla and hints of golden raisins.
Mouth: juicy and rather bright. A nice sweet side of raisins and berries, green apple, toffee notes and biscuits. A light salty tang (brine, liquorice) and then some ginger and pepper from the oak. Just a hint of dark chocolate towards the end.
Finish: medium, rather spicy with liquorice and tea.
Quite yummy, it may feel slightly more oak-driven than the excellent 17 Year Old it replaces, but still a really fresh, nice and versatile dram that captures the essence of what Pulteney is all about. Available from Master of Malt and TWE among others.