Tomintoul 14 Years
The Tomintoul 14 years is a classic single malt whisky from the Speyside region of Scotland, which is a particularly exciting option for beginners. With 46.00% ABV and a maturation period of 14 years in oak casks, this whisky promises an interesting blend of classic Speyside notes and a slight smoky flavour.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The first impression of the Tomintoul 14 Years is dense and complex. The nose is enveloped by a subtle smoke that remains pleasantly subtle and does not play the dominant role that one might expect from more heavily peated whiskies. In the foreground are honey notes that provide a pleasant sweetness, accompanied by a hay and vanilla flavour that is typical of Speyside whiskies. Floral notes give the flavour a slight freshness, while the smoke in the background adds a certain depth. An interesting comparison here could be Clynelish, which also has smoky tones, but is much ‘funkier’. The Tomintoul remains more elegant and accessible.
Palate
On the tongue, the Tomintoul 14 years shows its malty side, with the honey flavour still present and given an additional dimension by the light smoke. The whisky has a heavy, spicy texture, which is in contrast to many fruity, light Speyside whiskies. Interesting notes of apricot brandy and a potato spice mix bring an unexpected spiciness that is rounded off with a hint of mint.
Finish
The finish of the single malt is of medium length and remains predominantly spicy and oaky. A slight sweetness of sugar mixes with a sour note, which gives the whisky an interesting finish. This acidity ensures that the whisky does not remain too heavy on the tongue and has a pleasant finish.
Thoughts
Marcel 65/100
The Tomintoul 14 Years is a pleasant companion for cozy evenings, offering enjoyment with its sweet honey notes and subtle smoky character without overwhelming the palate. For anyone looking for an uncomplicated Speyside whisky, it’s definitely a solid choice – but nothing more. Those seeking a whisky with a truly distinctive personality should look elsewhere.
Sascha 71/100
With its balanced blend of sweet honey and spicy oak notes, the Tomintoul 14 Years delivers a structured and clear aromatic profile that particularly appeals to newcomers. The light smoky nuance adds extra depth, yet the lack of complexity limits the tasting experience for seasoned connoisseurs. Overall, it’s a well-crafted Speyside whisky with solid maturity, but without any real surprises.
Value for Money: Expensive
Discover our value for money winnersRelated Reviews
Braeval 1994/2019 - Sansibar
Braeval - a distillery that is often overshadowed by its more famous Speyside neighbours, even among whisky connoisseurs. This is mainly due to the fact that official bottlings are virtually non-existent. Instead, most of the production ends up in blends. Fortunately, there are independent bottlers such as Sansibar that make it possible to enjoy such hidden treasures as single malts.
87/100
Roseisle 12 Years Origami Kite 2 - Diageo Special Releases 2024
The Diageo Special Releases bring some of the most exciting bottlings to the market every year. In 2024, the Roseisle 12 Years Origami Kite 2 is a whisky from a distillery that was only founded in 2010 and has barely made an appearance as a single malt to date. Scepticism is appropriate - especially with a proud price that competes with established Speyside classics.
82/100
The Balvenie 2009 14 Years A Collection of Curious Casks
The ‘A Collection of Curious Casks’ series is proof of the Balvenie Distillery's innovative strength and craftsmanship. It offers whisky enthusiasts the opportunity to discover unusual and limited bottlings that are off the beaten track. We take a closer look at the 14-years Balvenie from the American Bourbon barrel.
84/100Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Tomintoul 14 Years differ from other Speyside whiskies?
The Tomintoul 14 Years combines classic Speyside notes like honey, vanilla, and floral aromas with a subtle smoky hint that gives it added depth. Compared to many fruity and light Speyside whiskies, it comes across as maltier and spicier, which makes it particularly interesting.
Which flavor notes are especially noticeable in the Tomintoul 14 Years?
The taste is dominated by honey and malt, complemented by a light smoky nuance. Additionally, notes of apricot brandy, a potato spice mix, and a hint of mint can be detected, giving the whisky an unexpected spiciness.
How does the 14-year maturation affect the character of the Tomintoul whisky?
The 14 years spent in oak casks impart a heavy, spicy texture and a medium-length finish with oaky and sweet-sour notes. The aging period ensures a balanced harmony between sweetness, spice, and subtle smokiness.