2006 Lady of the Glen Tullibardine Single Cask #617 11 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Tasting note: After a considerable absence, Tullibardine made a big return to the Australian market in 2019 with a raft of official bottlings. Going by the way they've sold, the distillery has more than a minor following. This Lady of the Glen indie release will appeal to anyone seeking an alternative, all-natural expression. Production was supervised by Master Distiller, John Black, who regrettably passed away in 2013. The whisky was matured in a first-fill bourbon barrel for a full 11 years, giving it a distinct sweetness, and it shows in the bouquet with notes of bubblegum, milk chocolate and vanilla malt. Bottled at near 60%, it's Tully at its biggest and brawniest. There's a vaguely fruity edge to the attack, eclipsed by a deluge of spices. The finish is sweet and grassy. Simple yet satisfying, tamed by a splash of water. 59.3% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. 183 bottles.

Notes from Gregor Hannah... creamy vanilla fudge flavours with white chocolate and vanilla milk qualities, enhanced by a scattering of black pepper.

Located just below the Speyside border, Tullibardine is based at Blackford in Perthshire. Classified as a Highlander, the site has a long history, stretching back to 1488 when it was home to an ancient brewery. King James IV bought ale here on his way to Scone palace. The distillery itself is relatively modern. Built in 1949, the name derives from the Gaelic ‘tullach bhardainn’, meaning 'hill of warning'. Water comes from the Danny burn. Currently outside the ownership of the big whisky conglomerates, it retains its own cooperage, warehouse and bottling hall on site. After lying dormant since 1994, new owners began another era in 2003, investing heavily in exceptional casks for their new spirit, the benefits of which we can enjoy now. The style tends towards well-balanced distillates of medium body and sweetness encompassing low malty notes and hints of sherry, honey and spice.