Three Ships 12 Years
We speak for ourselves and probably for many others: We didn't realise that whisky comes from South Africa. And we were even less aware that this single malt whisky is smoky and yes - small spoiler - it's really not bad!
Tasting Notes
Nose
The Three Ships 12 Years greets the nose with a vanilla-sweet note that immediately conveys a pleasant warmth. This is followed by a malty, cereal flavour reminiscent of freshly baked bread. A hint of sponge cake lends the flavour a subtle but seductive sweetness. Interestingly, iodised nuances also emerge, which, together with medicinal smoke, are reminiscent of a gentle, peaty landscape. A subtle note of suede rounds off the complex bouquet and gives the whisky an elegant, earthy depth.
Palate
On the palate, the Three Ships 12 Years unfolds a fascinating palette of flavours. The first impression is of a pine forest, fresh and green, with hints of forest floor and decayed needle leaves adding an earthy, natural note. These woody flavours are enlivened by a zesty citrus freshness that adds a vibrant and refreshing dimension to the whisky.
Finish
The finish is long and salivating, a sign of its high quality and complexity. A peppery, spicy note lingers on the tongue and ensures a warm, pleasant finish that leaves you wanting more.
Thoughts
Marcel 78/100
The Three Ships 12 Year old surprises with a charming blend of vanilla, malt, and a hint of peat smoke – a genuine taste experience from South Africa that delights with its lively freshness and peppery-spicy finish. Anyone looking for a whisky with character and drinkability should definitely grab this one!
Sascha 77/100
A well-structured whisky with a balanced harmony between sweet vanilla notes, earthy forest aromas, and a subtle smoky element. The Three Ships 12 Year old reveals clear aromatic depth and a long-lasting, spicy finish that underscores its maturity and quality – technically well-crafted, with a distinctive profile outside the classic whisky regions.
Value for Money: Good
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79/100Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Three Ships 12 Year old differ from traditional single malts from Scotland?
The Three Ships 12 Year old hails from South Africa and is characterized by a unique combination of peaty-smoky and iodine notes reminiscent of a gentle, peaty landscape. Additionally, it brings fresh, forest-like aromas and a zesty citrus brightness, setting it apart from many Scottish single malts, which often focus more heavily on smoke and peat.
Which flavor notes should I pay special attention to when tasting the Three Ships 12 Year old?
On tasting, vanilla-sweet and malty-cereal notes stand out first, followed by aromas like ladyfinger biscuits, iodine nuances, and a touch of medicinal smoke. On the palate, fresh, foresty aromas dominate with hints of forest floor and citrus brightness. The finish is long-lasting with peppery-spicy notes.
How should the Three Ships 12 Year old ideally be served to best unfold its aromas?
The Three Ships 12 Year old reveals its complexity best at room temperature in a tulip-shaped whisky glass. A few drops of water can help open up the aromas and better perceive the fresh, foresty, and smoky nuances. It is suitable both neat and with a light addition of water.