First dram of 2012 : Duncan Taylor ‘Dimensions‘ Aberlour 1993

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I am not too fond of yearly summaries and selecting best whiskies etc, so I have refrained from doing that and now that we’re officially in 2012, it’s time for the first dram of the new year. I’ve selected a recent bottling (though 2011, I fear no 2012 bottling exist to date, early in the second day of the year) by the independent bottler Duncan Taylor. This expression is part of a new line released recently by DT, called “Dimensions”. In addition to this Aberlour it includes also : Bunnhabhain 1988 (which I will also review shortly) ,  Cameronbridge 1978, Clynelish 1995, Glenlivet 1981, Glen Moray 1988, Glenrothes 1992, Royal Brackla 1997, Macduff 1997 and Mortlach 1989. Quite a lineup. The Dimensions collection consists of single cask, cask strength releases and exclusively numbered small batches at 46% abv. Neither chill filtered nor coloured.

When you think of Aberlour , you normally think “sherry” as most Aberlours out there are sherried in some way or heavily sherried. I was really intrigued to try this cask which is an ex-bourbon cask, and was curious as to how such an Aberlour would taste sans ‘sherry’ influence. Dram on…

Duncan Taylor Dimensions , Aberlour 1993 , 18yo , 54.3% ABV, Cask # 7371 ,277 btl , ~£68aberlour-18-year-old-1997-dimensions-duncan-taylor-whisky

Nose : Starting off very sweet on the nose with honey and  golden syrup , a certain waxiness, vanilla and wood chips with some coconuts. Text book Bourbon cask influence, and a marvelous fragrant nose it is! Natural whisky, no sherry, but so luscious.
Excellent bourbon influence. Vibrant and inviting. Classic stuff.
Palate : Vanilla galore, with fruity yumminess of apples and pear under a chocolate coating. Rather Sweet and fresh with wood spices : cinnamon, nutmeg and hints of white  pepper.
Finish: A gentle spiciness complimented by wood spices and chocolate / cocoa  powder.

Bottom line:

This is an Excellent whisky, from nose to palate and finish. No sherry influences let the basic whisky DNA shine through, this is no doubt a great cask. At that price, it’s a real steal. I jus love it, and boy what a way to start 2012 with ! let’s just hope for more whiskies like this one!

Score: 90/100

9 thoughts on “First dram of 2012 : Duncan Taylor ‘Dimensions‘ Aberlour 1993

  1. I really love the style of packaging and neoclassical of the bottle. It was going to be more  interesting and proudly served at occasions and parties. I really appreciate it so much. 

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