Old Pulteney 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Easily the biggest Pulteney in the core range, this replaces the 21 year old which was discontinued due to supply issues in 2017. A medley of dried fruits, beeswax and shortbread on the nose, along with the distillery's trademark notes of brine and salted crackers, sherry boosts the richness here; Mouthfilling, beautifully balanced flavours merge dried oranges, citrus oils and biscuity malt with coastal character and faint smokiness; Muted peppers, delicate beeswax, poached pears and cinnamon round out the finish with a breezy tang. Hard to stop at just one, so don't say we didn't warn you! Best without water or use minimal ice. Bourbon and Spanish oak matured. 46% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... Initially matured in bourbon and second-fill American oak casks, and then in Spanish oak oloroso butts. Rich, warming aromas of cinnamon, honey, oak, and milk chocolate. The chocolate darkens on the full palate, with contrasting ripe pears and crème brûlée. A hint of brine, along with citrus fruits and light oak in the lengthy finish.
90 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Gavin Smith (Winter 2018)

...Same combination of cask types as in the 15, let’s just hope it’s not gotten even spicier, heavy-speculoos-style. Colour: gold. Nose: well, the answer’s no, it’s not any spicier than the 15, and actually subtler, with notes of pinewood coal (fusain), brownies, genuine chocolate, pot-pourri, wulong, and a little cigar tobacco, maduro style. Mouth: extremely good! A salty arrival, some camphory aromas, some angelica, gentian, a wee bit of pumpernickel for good measure, a touch of blood orange, and perhaps a drop of Aperol. Apologies (because we mentioned Aperol). Finish: long, perfectly balanced, with some roasted nuts and crystallised oranges. There’s a cake like that out there but forgot its name (now that was useful, S.!) Comments: we’re bordering the 90-mark now. Excellent drop, superbly made, with perfect control of some pretty active oak. 89 points - whiskyfun.com