About
Old Pulteney was founded in 1826 by James Henderson in the north-east Scottish coastal town of Wick, named after Sir William Pulteney of the British Fisheries Society. This independent Adelphi bottling is a rare 2008 vintage, just 330 bottles from cask #11, after 17 years of maturation in a refill bourbon hogshead. Known as a 'maritime malt', Pulteney carries the character of its seaside location — evident here in the nose with lemon oil, green apple and pear, supported by honey and caramel. The palate is rich and layered: toffee and vanilla from the bourbon, with a saline edge reflecting the coastal setting. The finish is warm and peppery, with oak tannins that fade slowly. This is a whisky for those who appreciate subtle maritime notes without bombastic peat — a balanced, mature dram that shows the best of seventeen years' maturation.
Flavour Profile
Review (1)
If you like Old Pulteney, as I do, you've probably tasted the 12 yr and 15 yr. The 12 yr is more Bourbon inspired and the 15 sherry, though it has a floral salty freshness, as does the 15 yr old which is very dark in colour. As beautiful as those are, this is the essence of it, cask strength, bourbon hogshead. Powerful due to the strength but subtle in aroma and taste. The aroma is floral and nectar, sweet with the Pulteney saltiness that pairs very well with the sweetness which isn't exaggerated by it. The bourbon influence comes across very naturally, combined with the characteristic Pulteney character. After a moment the whisky opens up, followed by a peach aroma and taste, and a fruity candy sweetness, vanilla, sweet liquorice. It's a subtle whisky with depth, but subtle with plenty of character, and power. A pure whisky. No strange finishes, what has been done with it benefits the whole and the Pulteney essence in a respectful way entirely. It's worth the money, but only if you can compare this in your mind with the standard bottlings of Old Pulteney, and taste and smell where this version makes the difference through the special attention and craftsmanship that Adelphi demonstrates here. In short, definitely a nerd whisky. But also a masterpiece.