Deanston 2012/2023 11 Year Old - Best Dram

Mellow, Sweet Fruity
2025-01-19

Rum finishes are like the bell bottoms of the whisky world - sometimes totally trendy, sometimes highly controversial. In 2024, they are definitely in the spotlight, and the Deanston 2012/2023 11 Year Old from Best Dram shows why. This independent bottler has once again managed to deliver an affordable bottle that will delight novices and connoisseurs alike. But beware: rum finishes are a bit like blind dates - they can be sweet and exciting or just plain meh. This one? Clearly a fruit bomb with a wow effect.

Deanston 2012/2023 11 Year Old - Best Dram (@whiskyedition)

We would like to give you the opportunity to participate in a private bottle sharing at cost price with this bottle. Take a look: Bottle Sharing

Smell

From the very first sniff, Deanston catapults your nose into a tropical fruit basket. Imagine opening a fresh tin of peaches and apricots, sprinkling a few pieces of pineapple on top and topping it all off with honey sweetness and a hint of whipped cream. A gentle touch of creamy caramel and a small herbal greeting à la mate tea round off the experience. Sounds fancy? It is - but without being lifted off.

Taste

This is where it gets really exciting! The Deanston packs quite a punch at 55.7 % vol. but without overwhelming the palate. The oily texture is like silk on the tongue, while lemon balm and heather add fresh accents. The tropical fruits from the nose are also present here - apricot, pineapple and the like make an appearance. At the same time, a good portion of oak provides spice and depth. It is a balance of power and elegance that is simply fun.

Finish

The finish is like the final act of a good film: warm, dry and a little pensive. The oak comes to the fore and brings spicy, almost tart notes, while the fruitiness slowly fades away. A hint of tea lingers - a subtle finish that immediately invites you to take the next sip.

Thoughts

With this Deanston, Best Dram proves once again that great whiskies don't have to be expensive. The rum finish is not a gimmick here, but a real highlight: fruity, balanced and with enough power to impress even beginners. For the price, you get a tropical explosion of flavour that will shine in any collection.
The Deanston 2012/2023 11 year old harmonises wonderfully with grilled peaches! Simply cut in half, toss briefly on the grill and caramelise with a touch of honey or brown sugar. This perfectly emphasises the fruity, sweet notes of the whisky, while the light roasted aroma picks up on the oak touch and the spice.
For a savoury variation: Grilled chicken with lemon balm is also a fantastic match. The herbal flavours and juicy texture of the chicken combine beautifully with the oily texture and tropical notes of the whisky.

Rating: 89/100 - Excellent (Marcel: 90 | Sascha: 87)

Value for Money: 5/5 - Very Good

Preview Image Source: Whiskybase

Further Information

Cask Type: First Fill Guyana Rum Barrel Finish
Cask Number: 378