Tormore 2011 12 Years Spiced vanilla chai cake Cask 105.45 - The Scotch Malt Whisky Society
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) is known for its unusual and often experimental bottlings. With the Tormore 2011, matured for 12 years and a proud 66.8% ABV, the SMWS has ventured into a powerful yet playful bourbon cask experience. The sonorous name ‘Spiced Vanilla Chai Cake’ raises expectations of a sweet, spicy and deeply layered world of flavours.
Tasting Notes
Nose
A lot is happening here. A mixture of juicy apple and ripe pear meets an unexpected, almost maritime freshness. The whole is accompanied by a perfumed note reminiscent of time-honoured wood polish or even a noble sandalwood scent. This is joined by caramel, a hint of chalk dust and a subtle stony sweetness. If you take your time, you will discover ever new facets - a multi-layered bouquet that balances between sweet and mineral.
Palate
Expecting a certain heaviness on the nose, the whisky is surprisingly light-footed and sweet. An intense sugariness spreads across the tongue, almost as if someone had placed a spoonful of caramelised malt sugar on the taste buds. This is accompanied by light-coloured fruit, a subtle maltiness and an unusual spiciness - a little like a rustic rye whisky, but with more elegance. Interestingly, the sweetness is reminiscent of those dark, brown vodkas that fascinate with their syrupy texture.
Finish
This is where the Tormore shows its edgier side. The finish is rather short, but brings with it a salty breeze - a final nod to the maritime notes from the nosing. Spicy accents, a hint of oak and a gentle peppery tingle finish pleasantly.
Thoughts
Marcel 80/100
This Tormore 2011 is a playful yet sophisticated dram that delights with its sweet spice and maritime freshness – not a whisky for cozy beginner evenings, but for connoisseurs eager to explore something new. The combination of vanilla, chai, and vibrant fruitiness creates a character that lifts the mood and leaves you curious for more.
Sascha 81/100
The Tormore 2011 presents itself as a complexly crafted Speyside whisky with a well-balanced sweetness and mineral nuances. Despite its robust alcohol strength, the dram remains elegant and structured, with a short, spicy finish that provides a crisp conclusion – an intriguing bourbon cask expression with technical finesse.
Value for Money: Fair
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How does the bourbon cask influence the aromas of the Tormore 2011 12 Years "Spiced Vanilla Chai Cake"?
The bourbon cask imparts the whisky with its sweet vanilla and caramel notes, along with a certain spiciness reminiscent of chai spices. At the same time, it supports the fruity aromas of apple and pear and contributes to the subtle maltiness in the flavor.
Why does the Tormore 2011 taste surprisingly light and sweet on the palate despite its 66.8% ABV?
Although the alcohol content is high, the maturation in the cask and the complex interplay of aromas create a balanced profile. The sweetness of caramelized malt sugar and bright fruit notes soften the sharpness, making the whisky feel light-footed and pleasantly sweet.
What role do the maritime notes play in the flavor and finish of this Speyside whisky?
The maritime notes, reminiscent of salty sea breezes, bring an interesting freshness and minerality to the aroma and finish. They contrast with the sweet and spicy components, giving the whisky a lively, edgy character that adds extra complexity.