The latest addition to the core range of Tullibardine is an 18 year old expression. It comes from a combination of first-fill bourbon and sherry casks. It sits in between the 15 Years and 20 Years.
This release also introduces a fresh packaging redesign, with revamped cartons. Illustrations from a Scottish artist depict scenes and elements of the distillery.
Tullibardine 18 yo 2005 (43%, OB 2023)
Nose: a natural style with a nice richness. Buttery apfelstrudel and vanilla ice cream, alongside orange candy and golden syrup. Then darker hints of toffee and dried fruits come out, with a gingery note, linseed oil and fresh wood shavings. After some time it gets a bit rougher, with hay and chestnuts.
Mouth: more of this syrupy sweetness, mixed with cereal notes, cinnamon pastry and candied ginger. Then hints of honey, marmalade and orange peels. Some hazelnuts and walnuts. In the end it turns towards darker notes of coffee (with milk) and hints of cocoa.
Finish: medium, with more latte and hints of black pepper. Subtle herbal notes.
I’m thinking this is related to the Murray Double Wood edition we had a couple of years ago. Same vintage, similar richness… this time with a darker, spicier sherry influence I’d say. Overall a nice autumnal dram, not overly complex. Already available from the distillery shop and on its way to retailers.