Ardmore 12 Years 2012/2025 - Signatory Vintage
The Highlands are renowned for their distinctive single malts, and for over a century, the Ardmore distillery has been synonymous with powerful, smoky whiskies with unmistakable character. When a renowned independent bottler such as Signatory Vintage brings its expertise to bear, the result is often a true treasure. This 12-years Ardmore from 2012, bottled at a proud 60.70% ABV after maturing in bourbon barrels, promises an exciting journey through history, combining Highland tradition with American influence. Can this dram live up to the high expectations and reconcile the distillery's characteristic 'dirty' profile with the mild elegance of a bourbon barrel?
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Buy on AmazonTasting Notes
Nose
The fascinating complexity of this Ardmore is revealed right from the first sniff. Coconut caramel dominates the initial impressions – a clear indication of the twelve years of maturation in bourbon barrels. But behind this, a tropical fruit explosion unfolds: juicy mango dances with stony fruits for attention. What makes this whisky really interesting, however, is the subtle, earthy smoke that lays like a mysterious veil over the sweet notes. A subtle hint of rubber rounds off the bouquet and gives it an industrial note that fits perfectly with the Ardmore DNA.
Palate
The true strength of this dram is revealed on the palate. Despite its impressive 60.70% ABV, it is surprisingly voluminous and mild – a testament to Signatory Vintage's skilful cask selection. BBQ flavours run through the taste like a common thread, supported by burnt coconut, which adds a wonderful roasted note. Fresh lemon notes provide lively acidity, while malty sweetness and brown sugar give the whole a warm, inviting base. The balance between power and elegance is remarkable.
Finish
It starts off intensely earthy, accompanied by light wood notes that testify to barrel ageing. A meaty note – almost rustic – joins in and underlines the robust Highland character. Surprisingly, the finish is not too long, but all the more concise for it. Spicy components mix with honey sweetness to create a harmonious finish.
Thoughts
Marcel 78/100 - (Very good)
This Ardmore brings plenty of fun to the glass with its smoky, slightly gritty character, proving that a robust Highland whisky can be surprisingly mild and approachable despite a proud 60.7% ABV. Ideal for anyone willing to take on a sturdy yet playful dram – perfect for cozy evenings filled with character and a touch of adventure.
Sascha 81/100 - (Excellent)
At 60.7% ABV, this 12-years Ardmore impresses with a remarkable balance between intense smoke and the sweet finesse imparted by the bourbon barrel. Its clear structure, supported by lively acidity and a distinct yet not overly long finish, makes it a fine example of harmoniously complex Highland whisky with excellent cask management.
Value for Money: 3/5 (Fair)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does the bourbon barrel maturation influence the flavor of the Ardmore 12 Years 2012/2025?
The bourbon barrel maturation imparts pronounced notes of coconut caramel and tropical fruits like mango to the Ardmore 12 Years. At the same time, it softens the distillery’s smoky character, creating a balanced interplay between sweetness and subtle roastiness.
Why does this Ardmore at 60.7% ABV taste mild on the palate despite its high alcohol content?
The high alcohol strength is tempered by careful cask selection and extended maturation in bourbon barrels. This results in a whisky that feels full-bodied and powerful without harshness, highlighting a fine balance between strength and elegance.
Which typical Ardmore characteristics are still recognizable in the Signatory Vintage 12-years whisky?
Typical for Ardmore is the underlying earthy smoke that lays like a mysterious veil over the aroma. Additionally, rustic, meaty, and woody notes emerge on the finish, reflecting the distillery’s robust Highland character.