Spirit Type: Single Malt

Country: Scotland

ABV: 43%

Bottle size: 70cl

Description:

Tullibardine Due in part to its use of only first-fill ex-Bourbon barrels and somewhat higher proof, The Sovereign offers a richer overall experience and fulfills some of my desires for the Aged Oak Edition. The flavor and fragrance are still extremely contemporary, but they lack depth and complexity, so there is still room for improvement.

I've noticed a parallel between the Tullibardine's chalkiness and what I like to refer to as "sugar cocoa." The Sovereign and the AOE. Notes are less like chocolate and more like candy with a chocolate flavor. Consider chocolate-flavored Tootsie Rolls, Necco Wafers, or Twizzlers.

Tullibardine The Sovereign is produced using whisky stocks that are at least five years old and first-fill ex-Bourbon barrels that were only distilled for the new or current owner. From what I can see, it's basically the same as the Tullibardine Aged Oak Edition; the only difference is the product's name. However, the side-by-side comparison produces very different results.

On the nose, it smells malty with hints of pear and creamy white chocolate. The aroma of hot cereal. Vanilla custard. Overtones of mineral and gristle are very slight. A modern, approachable whiskey. The mouthfeel still tastes very malty. Apple and pear in abundance. There are now numerous spicy notes, including pepper, ginger, mint, and cinnamon. Additionally, there is a faint potpourri edge. The drink's medium-length aftertaste features more malt, ginger, and light nutty undertones.

This whisky is not a novice's whisky to be ashamed of, despite having a small inspiration deficit. This spirit is fresh and well-produced, unlike older distillery bottlings that occasionally lacked those qualities.