estive libations are as much a part of the holidays as bright lights and songs about reindeer, and why not: when the air is crisp and cool and parties are in full swing, no one refuses the man at the door with a bottle of something beautiful in hand. “Twelve” is the magic number this season, with 12-year-old whiskies spending long enough in the cask to yield depth and complexity, but at a price point that invites consuming or gifting in equal measure.
In the interests of having your gifts well received, we tasted our way through a lineup of six golden libations, some veteran pours and a few fresh updates. When the last glass was emptied, we emerged smiling and with clear opinions on a favorite: For us, Dewar’s new 12 Year Old was the star atop the tree. For more on it and on the other able whiskies in our tasting, read on—and may all of your holiday spirits be lifted from the top shelf.
A new whisky that builds upon the renowned Dewar’s house style of floral, honeyed Highland whisky, with a hint of smoke. Aromas of apple, ripe peaches and hints of lemon zest are followed by floral, spice and rich fruit notes; with a robust finish of vanilla, butterscotch and a wisp of a smoke. Complementing the flavor notes is the richer, smoother and more balanced mouthfeel.
There are more expensive Johnnie Walker expressions out there – lots of them – but this is the undoubted flagship of the Walker range, the world’s best-selling blended Scotch, first created around 1909. If you like a subtly smoky whisky with fruity undertones then this will suit your palate.
There’s a reason for this whisky’s global success, and one taste of this subtle, complex and surprisingly delicate dram will win over any doubters. It’s good to know too, that the company behind it remains independent and family owned. Think floral, with spice, malt, minerals and some honey.
Mad Men-era America loved this more than any other Scotch, but like the tall masted ship on the bottle, this blend’s popularity had sailed. Now it’s back with a newly released 12-year-old that has, as the brand explains, “mellow mouthfeel.” Think clove, ginger, spice and a touch of sea salt.
This Perthshire single malt lies at the heart of the Dewar’s blends. From a distillery established in 1896 by John and Tommy Dewar, the signature style delivers a warm, honeyed sweetness that’s at once approachable but with a depth and complexity to satisfy even the most discerning drinker. Creamy, some melon and pear, a touch of smoke and citrus; definitely one to sip and savor.
Another classic that once defined the premium Scotch category, its rich, warming blend continues to appeal to lovers of Speyside flavors. Still in the style of its 19th century origins (thanks to blended Scotch whisky pioneers, founders John and James Chivas), its crisp orchard fruit, wild heather and honey work well in highballs and contemporary cocktails.
Look no further than Dewar's 12 for a whisky that works on almost any occasion, hitting a bullseye in the sweet spot of quality"
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