Aberfeldy 12YO revisited – review of the new version

Four years ago I got a chance to taste Aberfeldy 12 year old single malt. I was not impressed. It was too delicate for my taste. Since then they’ve refreshed the visual identity and packaging design. As far as I know, the content is still the same. Still, I decided it was time to revisit this prize winning classic dram from Highlands.

Aberfeldy distillery was founded in 1896 by John Dewar & Sons, Ltd. That’s why its malt whisky is the base for Dewar’s Blended. They use American Oak Ex-Bourbon casks for maturation.

Even though the package and label are missing its signature Aberfeldy red squirrel, I must admit that the revamp has given some dignity. The new version comes in a handsome black tube decorated with rose-gold colored font. Very stylish. You can read my review of the Aberfeldy 12YO old version.

Tasting notes

Matured in:

Ex-Bourbon casks

ABV: 40%

Colour: Young Sauternes

Nose: Very smooth, quite creamy. Bit of spices and sherry. Cereal and hints of pineapple. Honey starts to dominate at some point.

Taste: Lots of barley sugar. Sherry and fruits. Notes of vanilla and full of malt. Still delicate, but full.

Finish: Sherry notes hits you good. Otherwise the aftertaste is a bit lame.

Balance: Easy to drink, smooth and balanced but not much in character. Either the recipe has improved or my palate has changed but either way, I like this new version more than the old one.