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Old Pulteney 12 year old Scotch whisky – 40% ABV

Overall rating: 5/5

Old Pulteney is known as the maritime malt for obvious reasons. In 1826 when it was founded, the distillery relied on the sea for almost everything – barley was brought in off the docks and whisky was shipped from them.

It's maintained its commitment to its maritime heritage, and still makes brilliant whiskies. The Old Pulteney 12 year old is matured in air-dried ex-bourbon casks, which impart a sweetness that will keep you coming back for more. The dram was awarded gold at the Scotch Whisky Masters Awards in 2019.

In the glass you're greeted by a bouquet of honey and oak, cream and an earthy freshness, with sea air pushing the lot along. The bourbon casks dress the palate, calling on a mix of salted nuts, popcorn and lemon zest separated by bursts of pepper which keeps the liquid from teetering into the saccharine. Candied apple and chewy toffee finish the whisky, ushered out by saline.

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Makes the perfect whisky gift for...

Bursting with character history, this is the perfect choice for your environmentally conscious friend. The distillery is intrinsically linked to the sea, and works to protect our oceans through charitable projects, making it an ideal gift for your green pal.

Discover over 400 buyer's guides including the best whiskies to buy as a gift or more reviews like our favourite rye whiskey in our reviews section.

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This review was last updated in October 2019. If you have any questions or suggestions for future reviews, or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk. For information on alcohol guidelines, read our guide to drinking responsibly.

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