The Macallan 12 Years Sherry Oak is a cornerstone expression in the series of single malts matured in sherry seasoned oak casks from Jerez. As you know the distillery has a classic range which is divided into Sherry Oak and Double Cask collections.
I last tried this version in 2016 – time for an update!
The Macallan 12 yo – Sherry Oak Cask (40%, OB +/- 2023)
Nose: slightly leathery sherry, with some oily notes, cinnamon and grapes. Underlying malty notes, along with oranges, drops of herbal tea and autumn leaves. Toffee and whiffs of apple blossom too. Just a light rubbery note in the background, otherwise rather nice and reasonably rich.
Mouth: starts on raisins and figs, with plenty of marmalade. Baking spice and brown sugar sets in after a while, as well as further rubbery touches. Then walnuts and cocoa, as well as hints of charred wood. It’s a little on the dark and caramelly side, lacking brighter fruits. Also the low ABV makes it dissipate rather quickly.
Finish: medium, on dark chocolate, slightly bitter wood spice and liquorice.
While this used to be clearly better than the 12 Years Double Cask, it now feels a little underwhelming. The bittersweet side and rubbery edge are bringing down the overall enjoyment and the strength could be higher. Available from The Whisky Exchange and Master of Malt among others.