A 20 year old whisky for less than € 100, where can you still find that? Ardmore or Glenfarclas of course, but otherwise Tullibardine will be your only option, I think. It is matured in first- and second-fill bourbon barrels, kind of a grown up version of the Tullibardine Sovereign, they say.
Tullibardine 20 yo (43%, OB +/- 2017, first-fill + second-fill bourbon)
Tullibardine 20 yo (43%, OB +/- 2017, first-fill + second-fill bourbon)Nose: starts on multiplex and wet newspaper. Hay and dry leafy notes build up, as well as hints of flour. Airing helps and brings out melons, tobacco and almonds. All-spice, butterscotch, hints of unripe banana too.
Mouth: really malty, butterscotch again, sweet vanilla. Bitter oranges and an oaky, grassy side. Hints of caramel and herbal liqueurs.
Finish: medium, on grass and caramel notes, with a hint of ginger.
Okay, maybe not the bargain I was hoping for. I mean, it’s smooth and works well as a daily dram, but it’s too middle-of-the-road to be on your upper shelf. Available from Master of Malt or The Whisky Exchange.
Score: 82/100