Whisky: Aultmore 10 Year (2011), SMWS 73.138 "Whin Whin Situation"

Country/Region: Scotland/Speyside

ABV: 62.4%

Cask: First Fill Bourbon Barrel

Age: 10 Years (Distilled 25 March 2011)

Nose: Citrus and grass with mellow oat cakes and flaky country biscuits; a touch of lemon-honey glazed donuts, bright lemon zest, lemonade powder, and green grass; a Spring meadow worth of fresh greenery and hints of florals; youthful with a touch of prickly spirit.

Palate: Medium-bodied, a touch buttery with citrus marmalade, scones, and a fresh spring meadow— green grass with a touch of florals appeared with a subtle touch of earthiness; white pepper and black pepper at the end as youthful spirit finally arrived with a late tingle

Finish: Medium to long with green meadows and orchard fruits.

Score: 6-7 (81)

Mental Image: Breakfast Picnic in the Meadow

Narrative & Notes: Bright and friendly with a touch of something earthier and funkier in the background, I thoroughly enjoyed this young Aultmore. While a touch of youthful spirit arrived with citrusy pastries on the nose, the palate was nicely balanced and buttery until the end when some tingling pepper arrived and collided with the subtle earthy quality to create a touch of funky white pepper. The finish was nice and long with refreshing meadow and orchard fruit notes. This was a very summery whisky— perfect for sipping at the end of a hot day or on the rocks.

Overall, pleasant and very drinkable— it had a touch of some of the intriguing depth that I really enjoyed on similar age and maturation Glenburgie from SMWS. When these young whiskies go wrong they can feel very simple and far too hot— but when they go right they are a delight and this was very much a delight.