Tullibardine 225
The Tullibardine 225 is based on the Tullibardine Sovereign and undergoes a 12-month finish in Sauternes barrels (225 litre capacity). Sauternes is a French wine-growing region known for its noble sweet white wine.
Tasting Notes
Nose
We perceive distinct malty, cereal flavours in the nosing. Underneath are vanilla notes and something sour, reminiscent of pineapple or lemon squash. Something like clarified butter also tickles the nose.
Palate
The Highlander is buttery soft and creamy in the mouth. Flavours of pineapple and lemon tickle the taste buds, while vanilla and a slightly vinous grape form the core.
Finish
The single malt lingers on the palate for a medium length with a pleasant grapey bitterness.
Thoughts
Marcel 65/100
The Tullibardine 225 brings some pleasant sweet Sauternes finish aromas to the table, but remains somewhat pale and unremarkable. It’s fine for a relaxed drink now and then, but unfortunately, the fireworks of character we were hoping for never materialize.
Sascha 64/100
A well-structured Highland malt that gains additional fruity notes and a subtle grape bitterness from the 12-month Sauternes finish, yet still leaves room for improvement in aroma depth and complexity. The balance between maltiness and sweet accents is solid, though it doesn’t deliver any real highlights.
Value for Money: Fair
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What makes the Sauternes finish in the Tullibardine 225 special?
The 12-month finish in 225-liter Sauternes casks imparts a sweet-fruity note with aromas of pineapple, lemon, and a lightly winey grape character typical of the noble sweet white wine from the French wine region.
How does the Tullibardine 225 differ from the standard Tullibardine Sovereign?
The Tullibardine 225 is based on the Sovereign but gains additional fruity and vanilla complexity through the special Sauternes finish, which is less pronounced in the standard Sovereign.
Why does the Tullibardine 225 have no age statement (NAS)?
The whisky is a No Age Statement (NAS) because it can come from various vintages and is especially characterized by the finish in Sauternes casks, without specifying a minimum maturation period.