Royal Brackla 2009 Grown-Up Indulgences Cask 55.72 - SMWS

Rich, Dried Fruits
2024-05-17
The Royal Brackla bottled by the Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) matured for 9 years in an ex-bourbon hogshead before the 3-year finish began in a 1st fill PX hogshead made from American oak.
Royal Brackla 2009 Grown-Up Indulgences Cask 55.72 - SMWS
Royal Brackla 2009 Grown-Up Indulgences Cask 55.72 - SMWS (Preview Image Source: Whiskybase)
Single Malt Whisky | 12 Year Old | 58,10 % ABV. | 114,00 €/l | Royal Brackla Distillery | bottled by SMWS | produced in Scotland (Highlands) | Whiskybase ID 207081

Smell

The Royal Brackla 2009 unfolds an opulent palette of flavours on the nose. A strong caramel flavour is dominant, mingling with a sugary-sweet, syrupy note. The sherry influences are unmistakable, with redcurrants in particular coming to the fore. This is accompanied by a strong oak note, which gives the whisky a robust structure.

Taste

Oaky and with a slightly ashy note, the 12-year-old Royal Brackla begins its journey. The consistency is oily and syrupy, which makes the mouthfeel pleasantly full-bodied. Fruity notes of sultanas and honey dates characterise the taste, accompanied by a tangy lemon note and a hint of redcurrant. Plum is also clearly perceptible, while a slight bitterness is noticeable in the background.

Finish

The finish of the Royal Brackla 2009 is long, intense and dry, with a lingering syrupy note. The feeling of chewing on a cask stave remains long after the last sip and once again emphasises the strong oak presence of this whisky.

Thoughts

The Royal Brackla 2009 Grown-Up Indulgences Cask 55.72 fulfils many expectations, but it also surprises in some respects. It is not as intense as one might expect from a 1st fill PX cask, and the oak dominates more than necessary. Nevertheless, it is extremely pleasant to drink and impresses with its solid structure. However, it lacks a little of the complexity and fruitiness that one might hope for.

Rating: 79/100 - Very Good (Marcel: 78 | Sascha: 80)

Value for Money: 3/5 - Acceptable

Preview Image Source: Whiskybase
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