Macallan 12 Years Double Cask
Macallan is one of the most renowned whisky brands globally, often associated with luxury and prestige. The Macallan 12 Years Double Cask combines American and European oak, both seasoned with sherry. Its elegant presentation emphasizes the brand's premium aspiration.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The first impression is characterized by tangy red fruits and sweet honey. Light hay notes, vanilla, and mild oak follow. A hint of baking powder, cinnamon, and candle wax rounds off the aromatic profile, adding a subtle spiciness.
Palate
Smooth and creamy, the Macallan 12 Double Cask unfolds on the palate. Honey sweetness dominates at first, followed by grassy tones, plum, and a pinch of white pepper. Cinnamon adds a warming spice that complements the overall impression harmoniously.
Finish
The finish is rather short, with light oak spice and gentle dryness. A subtle wood note appears but fades quickly.
Thoughts
Marcel 78/100
If you're looking for a gentle, straightforward whisky that scores with honeyed sweetness and warm sherry notes, the Macallan 12 Year Double Cask will bring you joy. For me, it’s a pleasant companion that doesn’t offer any big surprises but precisely because of that fits nicely in the glass – a solid everyday whisky with character that doesn’t annoy.
Sascha 76/100
The Macallan 12 Year Double Cask shows a solid balance between fruit, sweetness, and light spice, yet remains rather unassuming and not very complex. Its short finish and mild aftertaste create an accessible but somewhat flat overall impression, appealing especially to beginners seeking a harmoniously structured Speyside whisky.
Value for Money: Expensive
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What does 'Double Cask' mean in Macallan 12 Year Double Cask?
'Double Cask' refers to maturation in two different types of casks: American and European oak, both of which were previously seasoned with sherry. This combination gives the whisky a balanced mix of sweet and spicy aromas.
How does the Macallan 12 Year Double Cask differ in taste from other Macallan 12 Year expressions?
The Double Cask is characterized by the blend of American and European oak, which imparts a distinctive honeyed sweetness and subtle spice. Compared to purely sherry-cask matured variants, it offers a softer, creamier texture with fruity and vanilla notes.
Is the Macallan 12 Year Double Cask suitable for whisky beginners?
Yes, with its moderate 40% ABV and gentle, creamy flavor, this whisky is well suited for newcomers. The combination of sweet honey and fruit notes along with mild spice makes it an enjoyable introduction to the world of single malts.