The Macallan Triple Cask Matured Fine Oak 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

"A whisky whose quality has hit the stratosphere since I last tasted it". - 95.5 points Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022

If ever there was a malt to make or break a distillery's reputation, it would probably be this. Affordable and widely available, Macallan knew they had to over-deliver at the entry level, and according to more than one report they've succeeded with aplomb: It's hard to believe, but one of the highest rated Macallans of recent times is this often overlooked twelve year old - even out-ranking the extraordinary $150K Lalique III 57 year old in Jim Murray's 2022 Whisky Bible. The Fine Oak 12YO was introduced in one of the most significant product launches in Macallan's illustrious history and marked a completely new range matured in European and American oak casks. With both Sherry and Bourbon at play, it was a bold move into new territory. In short, if you're looking for big sherry, look elsewhere. On the nose this is relatively sweet and broad, ungiving in complexity and a little flat. The palate delivers a sprightly, citrusy Macallan, with the Bourbon wood contributing some coconut and vanilla character to the dried pineapple and fruit jube notes. Yes, this is very contemporary by Macallan's traditional standards - a quality daily dram, and one casual whisky that takes to water, perhaps showing its best over ice when the oiliness of the malt makes itself more apparent. Without water, balance is maintained by cleansing peppery spice while a pleasing orange-milk chocolate and citrus tang develops. 40% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews… A whisky whose quality has hit the stratosphere since I last tasted it. I encountered a disappointing one early in the year. This has restored my faith to the point of being a disciple. 95.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022

...Triple Cask replaced Macallan’s Fine Oak range in 2018, and was matured in a combination of European and American sherry-seasoned oak and American oak bourbon barrels. The entry level 12 year old offers a relatively light, zesty nose, with citrus fruit, vanilla, and ginger, while the palate yields more citrus fruit and vanilla, honey, sweet oak, and dark chocolate. Cantaloupe and wood spice in the finish. 88 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by Gavin Smith 2019

“The best balanced of the youngsters. Everything is beginning to fill out. A 'Drink Me!' malt. Rating: 8.5/10 - Dave Broom tasting notes, Issue 42, Whisky Magazine.