Now that I think about it, Linkwood has actually never disappointed me. The spirit does well in both ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, and is almost always good, sometimes even better than good. Today I review a Linkwood from indie bottler Single Malts of Scotland, one that has matured for 24 years in a bourbon hogshead.
Linkwood 1991/2015 (53,8%, Single Malts of Scotland, C#586497)
Nose: Freshly cut apples and apricots, with a touch of honey, brown sugar and caramel. Very clean and crisp with some cactus sap thrown in. Not overly complex, but mellow and pleasant.
Taste: Feistier than the nose lets on. Pepper-y with some cumin, after which it flows into friendlier flavours, such as cinnamon apple and wet leaves.
Finish: Spicy and fruity at the same time. Medium in length.
Rating: 86
This is my least favourite of the recent releases from Single Malts of Scotland. But that is more of a testament to the quality of the other whiskies (Arran, Clynelish, Longmorn, Tobermory), than a disqualification of this Linkwood.
Sample provided by Speciality Drinks
