Spirit Type: Single Malt

Country: Scotland

ABV: 46%

Bottle size: 70cl

Description:

Royal Brackla 12-year-old Highland single malt Scotch whisky smugly bears the label of "The King's Whisky," decorated across its brand. The viewpoint is always main when assessing anyone else's assessment of anything. After all, many Americans would see a king as just another dude, albeit with a stingingly diverse bank account.

However, the royal assembly, with this single malt, goes somewhat beyond a single endorsement. Recognized in 1812, the Royal Brackla Distillery was settled a Royal Warrant by King William IV in 1833, and so bears the name "Royal" on their label as legal designation within the British monarchy.  

The difference is shared only by the still active Royal Lochnagar and the former Glenury Royal distilleries. Of these three, Royal Brackla was the first to be settled, and the warrant was changed in 1838 by Queen Victoria.

The aroma of the product is delightful, as it comes with indulgent florals, dry sherry, faint licorice, bitter oranges, along with the moldy wood. None of this is enormous or intense or in-your-face; however, it all reaches in a whisper.

When it comes to the taste, things are somewhat less imposing. There's some soft sweetness at the primarily notes, then garden-fruit juiciness and dry tannins vie for power, with the vicious side of things charming out in the end. 

At the finishing notes, a rather harsh and oak-driven concern, which isn't essentially a bad thing. This one pulls it off quite agreeably. At any rate, a decent apéritif (in the custom of the Italian "bitter"). 

It is loved by countless liquor lovers as it has attained Gold in Distillers' Single Malts 12 years and under - 2020 at International Spirits Challenge, Gold in Scotch Single Malt - Highland - 2019 at International Wine & Spirit Competition, Gold in Highland Single Malt 12 Years and Under - 2016 at World Whiskies Awards and many more. 

Moreover, it has a medium, slightly gingery, bitter, and peppery finish. Somehow the tart fundamentals do not interrupt here but come across as subtle, restrained, and thoughtful.