By
George Brozowski
With
over 2,500 brands of Scotch Whisky being produced
by about 125 distilleries, things can get a might confusing
when attempting to discuss Scotch Whisky. And just to complicate
matters further, there are 5 single malt regions in Scotland
each with their own distinctive taste profiles; Speyside where
Macallan is made, Lowlands, Highlands, Islay, Campbeltown,
and the Islands. And to cap it off Scotch Whisky is not just
Scotch Whisky it's either Scotch Whisky or Blended Scotch
Whisky or blended grain Scotch whisky or Blended Malt Scotch
Whisky or finally Single Malt Scotch Whisky and/or Single
grain Scotch Whisky.
And
just imagine, all that Scotch is being produced in a country
the size of tiny little old South Carolina. I'm willing to
bet that the only crop grown in Scotland is barley and 100%
of that is used to make Scotch. I'm further willing to bet
that every man, woman, and yes, even every child is employed
in making Scotch. If there are any animals in Scotland, they
must be there because they contribute in some way, shape or
form in making Scotch. It just boggles the mind!
Obviously,
if Scotch is your preferred tipple, then you might just have
a very discerning palate accompanied by the detail-oriented
brain of a Mensa wizard. Now, it's been said I have a discriminating
palate and at times have been known to possess a sharp tongue,
but I will certainly guarantee you I ain't no Mensa wizard.
So if you're just now preparing to delve into the world of
Scotch, I wish you luck and even envy you a bit as you are
about to discover some palate pleasing pleasures. On the other
hand, if you're already a serious Scotch drinker ,then you
know about and have undoubtedly experienced some out of this
world wonders. And so without further ado, I am plunging into
the tasting of The Macallan 12 year old single malt Scotch
Whisky.
At
this point things become highly subjective or as the French
are wont to say; "Chacun a son gout" or each to
their own taste. The bottle is a bit oval rather than perfectly
round and feels very nice and easy to hold. The label is a
no nonsense affair that reflects heritage and dignity. The
content is a twelve year old single malt Scotch whiskey matured
in selected sherry oak casks from Jerez, Spain. The color
is a translucent amber. The nose is a subtle mélange
of caramel and butter with a hint of oak and, of course, a
delicate nuance of Sherry. Its aromas are softly layered,
interwoven, and if it's at all possible, smell very smooth
and laid back. It is light bodied, vaguely viscous and quite
the surprise as I was really expecting something with a bit
more body. Sherry, oak, and orange initiate the palate followed
by smoky peat and dark wood and worn leather. Again it is
much gentler than I thought it would be and very refreshing
- yet also very distinct. I do believe the Sherry contributes
much to its mellowness, sweetness, smoothness and overall
finish. Speaking of which, the finish is medium in length
but just long enough to let you enjoy the Sherry and oak and
smoke and sweetness one last time and of course it is smooth
right up the very end.
This
is an excellent Scotch, but unlike a more traditional Scotch,
it does not over power and it is not overly smoky or oaky.
I do believe if you're going to just discover the joys of
Scotch this would be an excellent place to start. Depending
on where you source this elixir it could run as high as $100.00
and as low as $60.00 so do check around, it'll be worth your
time.
For
more Rants & Raves click
here.
http://www.themacallan.com/
