2000 Smiths Angaston 12 Year Old Single Malt Whisky (700ml)

Proprietors, Samuel Smith & Son, have played to their strengths, with old-fashioned methods combined with modern practice. At the time of its conception in 1996, the company were the distributors of Glenrothes Scotch Whisky, Coopers Ales & Stouts and to this day have well established relationships within the Australian wine industry from which they sought advice. It was a perfect scenario for a new (or re-born) whisky venture.

After three prior stand out single cask releases (one 10 year old and two 11 year olds), a multiple cask vatting has been bottled from the 2000 distillation, a vintage especially noted for its use of a special French yeast strain (CGC 62/P) originating from the Cognac district. Three French oak casks have been blended along with the whisky from a sole American oak cask, bottled at a strength of 43%. Only 660 bottles have been produced.

Specifics on stocks of future quantities remain cloudy, however there is good news for fans. A distillation has been confirmed to have taken place in 2011, once again securing the path for subsequent Smith's releases. A highly anticipated 15yo is also rumoured for release in 2013 - a first for Australian whisky. Stay tuned.

Tasting note: Deep brassy gold appearance. A powerful bouquet is plush with scents of dried apricot and raisin, laced with clove and cinnamon. Some confectionary like notes emerge with aeration, including toffee apple. A typically compelling Smith’s sniff. The palate offers a medium dry profile of dried fruit and cereals followed by a sweet burst of caramel. Good concentration. Gently warming, spicy mid palate. Somewhat tannic and moderately spicy finish with good length. Shows many of the characteristics of previous Smith’s releases, including a semblance to some Cognacs, though this is a slightly leaner expression in the mouth. 43% Alc./Vol. Only 660 bottles produced.

We have one bottle only to sell.