After checking out the GlennAllachie range at Paris Whisky Live, we moved on to Royal Brackla. Overall we’ve had “happy” experiences with whiskies from this distillery. I was particularly pleased to see the range on offer was all at 46% – typically considered the “connoisseurs” strength as fro most whiskies it provides a nice “feel” for the whisky character without being “watered down” too much!
So what did we think of this trio of Royal Brackla 12, 18, and 21 year vintages?
Royal Brackla 12 year Oloroso 46% (approx Eur 67)
- Nose – Fresh, with some citrus acidity, sherry Christmasy notes, a bit buttery
- Palate – Full, fruity, some cherries or raisins
- Finish – Honey followed by hay
I will admit I had fewer notes for this one than the balance… however I think checked the official tasting notes and would overall concur:
The full bodied spice of Oloroso and the bright summer breeze of Royal Brackla elegantly combine as a smooth and inviting dram – ripe peaches, black cherries, chocolate covered almonds and muscovado sugar.
Royal Brackla 18 year Palo Cortado 46% (approx Eur 148)
- Nose – Started off a bit salty and spicy, dare I say like a nice aged cheddar, it was initially shy to reveal further notes but when it did – lovely!
- Palate – Soft, delicious, juicy peaches, wonderful balance
- Finish – Really quite fabulous – creamy, tangy, and lightly bitter with spice
Overall this was a luscious juicy indulgence – I didn’t note any cocoa powder however it was a mere “sniff and swish” as happens in such settings…
And where is the cocoa? Why in the official tasting notes:
Rich spices, creamy vanilla, big, succulent soft fruits and cocoa powder, brightened with a zing of citrus.
Royal Brackla 21 year Oloroso, Palo Cortado, PX 46% (approx Eur 250)
- Nose – Caramel, toffee, rich vanilla ice cream, berries
- Palate – Victoria sponge cake with jammy creamy icing and cake layers
- Finish – Gorgeous! Long, strong, sherry
Overall we found this simply beautiful! A special treat… certainly not something for every day but a very special occasion.
As for the official tasting note? Would we agree? Most certainly!
Syrupy toffee notes, with richly fragrant summer berries warmed by the sun and dusted in cinnamon and muscovado sugar.
Curious about other Royal Brackla expressions? Check out:
- Royal Brackla 11 year 55.2% (North Star Series 004)
- Royal Brackla 11 year (2006) cask 310864 60.9% (The Single Cask)
- Royal Brackla 16 year 40%
- Royal Brackla 21 year 40%
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