Macallan Double Cask 12 Year Old – 70cl

The Macallan built its name on sherry casks, and the Double Cask 12 Year Old is where that reputation meets a slightly softer, rounder style. It marries whisky matured in two kinds of sherry-seasoned oak — American and European — bringing together the sweeter, honeyed side of the former with the deeper, spicier character of the latter. This is Speyside single malt at its most approachable, and a fine place to start with the distillery.

Twelve years in those casks gives you a rich amber whisky with plenty to say. The nose leads with honey, vanilla and fresh orange, backed by dried fruits and warm oak. On the palate it is smooth and gently sweet — more honey and citrus, candied orange, raisin, a lick of ginger and cinnamon, and a soft note of wood spice. The finish is medium in length, sweet and warming, with the oak lingering pleasantly. There is no rough edge here; it is polished and easy to love.

A whisky for pouring generously rather than agonising over — equally happy as an after-dinner dram or an introduction for a curious friend.

How to Serve

Neat in a tulip glass to gather the aromas, with a few drops of water to coax out more of the sweetness. It takes a little ice well enough on a warm evening.

Where to Drink It

A civilised dram at Dukes Bar in St James's, the American Bar at The Savoy, or Scarfes Bar at the Rosewood.

Food Pairings

Lean savoury: a plate of cured meats, roast game, or a wedge of aged Comté. Smoked almonds never hurt.