I sold our last two bottles of G'goyne 12 at work this weekend based on your affinity for that release, as well as sending them to the STD channel. They often seem interested in checking it out. I use my coin #172 as an ice-breaker.
Appreciate that Bart had Coal Ila on his list. The 17 y.o. Coal Ila Unpeated is excellent with subtle hint of peat. My list would add Glenkinchie & Old Pulteney. Have to try Brackla. Now tempted to open the 21 y.o. Glengoyne I just brought back from their distillery. Tomatin 12 is another good one.
Scotch Test Dummies Just snagged a bottle of Glenkinchie 14 yo Distillers Edition. Really tasty, finished in Amontillado sherry casks. Cheaper than the 12 yo. Score!
Great lists, boys. I would have dropped the Old Pulteney 12 into the mix along with the Bunnahabhain 12 and Cragganmore 12. Heck, even the Cardhu 12 is a great dram. So many to choose from! I have a bottle of The Tomatin 12 so I'll pass on the contest. Cheers.
Not bad a choice, Dummies. I love the Macallan12 very much too. it was my personal breakthrough experience decades ago. my actual Nr1 would by Springbank12cs .I just opened a bottle of it last night and it's amazing!
I agree with the first mention... Glenfarclas 12... A winner for sure! I get it in Massachusetts for $35!!! I just got a bottle of Glenfarclas 10 for $39! Another winner!
Free Tomatin 12 Contest. I appreciate that I don't feel like I'm being "schooled" by an "expert" telling me what I should like. With you two it's more like sitting around, shooting the bull, with a couple of buds who know their scotches and have tried a boatload of them. Keep 'em coming guys. Sláinte!
The Glengoyne is a lighter sweeter sherry influence whereas the Macallan 12 is exclusively matured in sherry so it brings a little of the darker sherry notes than the Glengoyne does. Love both, but the Macallan 12 wins that one for me. Scott
Thanks Good Choices Dummy. What is your suggestion on 3 un-chill filtered scotch that has % high ABV and A Delicious SWEET HEAVY Mouth Coating WOW ...WOW from them. Please let me know, I searching for those dessert types. I am new.
Nice one, guys! Great scotches you listed there! The Brackla was news to me. Gotta test it! I'm all in for the free Tomitin 12y giveavay contest! btw I visited Tomitin in october. Great tour! Great people. Here is my alternative list: 1. Bunna 12 - 2. Kilkerran 12 - 3. Old Pulteney 12 - 4. Cragganmore 12 - 5. Highland Park 12. I am with you on the Glens but I have only tasted the older ones ;) Cheers from Oslo, Norway.
The 5 that will always be in my stash 1) Tobermoray 2) Bunnahabhain 3) GlenAllichie 4) Glen Garrioch 5) Deanston. All these are available without much work and all under £45. 00 UK. all 46% or over, NCF, and no added colour. Enjoy guys and keep having fun.
I'm a big fan of the show you guys always give me a laugh. I have 2 of your challenge coins 96 and 98 from Oban little bay and 2 glasses all I need is some Free scotch. keep up the good work guys.
I've got to admit I'm a Bourbon guy but since I've been watching your show I've tried several scotch's. Sorry Bart but I'm having trouble with the peat. Id love to try the Tomatin 12. Maybe that would help me get over you flaunting the Elijah Craig barrel proof I cant find...lol. Once again nice show guys, really appreciate your input.
Thanks Brett you are in the drawing. Truth be told at my first scotch tasting I sampled some Ardbeg 10 and it was too much for me. All I got at the time was ashtray bandaids. It was about a year later that Compass Box Peat Monster won my heart. Bart
Great video, thanks for coming back to Scotch! My top five 12 YO malts based on what I've tried so far are (in no particular order): Lagavulin 12YO Limited Edition CS (probably the best Lagavulin official bottling) Springbank 12YO CS Macallan 12YO Sherry matured - a classic! Glenmorangie 12 YO Quinta Ruban (port genius) Glendronach 12 YO Honorable mentions: Glengoyne 12; Glenmorangie Nectar D'or
For some peat, Kilkerran 12yo would make my top 5. Really liked Tomatin Dual Chas/Legacy - enter me for the 12 - would love to try. All the best guys - slainte!
Great show guys, always a ton of fun, your approach is a welcome change to the prototypical scotch reviewer. Highland Park 12 would be in my top 5 for sure. Glendronach 12 is there too.
STD, I have not had all of the one's you've mentioned, but from the one's that I've tried, I would have to go with the Glendronach 12 or Caol Ila 12. Include me in for the register of the Tomatin 12. Great review.
Tomatin 12 - Great show. like both of your guys top 5 mine would be 1-The Balvenie 12 dw, 2-Caol ila 12 3Highland Park 12 4 ,Macallan 12. 5, Aberfeldy 12
Great review lads. Interesting list and I have to admit I've not tried some of them. I've been blessed with a very fine collection of independent 12 year bottlings this year. One or two excellent 11 year old's too, including an outstanding Gordon & Macphail Caol Ila at cask strength aged in four first fill sherry butts. My list of the distillery offerings in no particular order. Lagavulin 12 - That's the peaty one you forgot to mention and it's an absolute boss at cask strength. Springbank 12 Cask Strength - Unique Springbank goodness. Balvenie 12 Single Barrel First Fill - Terrific ex-bourbon at a punchy strength. Benriach 12 - Quality sherried expression at a great price. (no colour or chill-filtration and 46%) - Glendronach 12 on another day. Bunnahabhain 12 - One of my go to whiskies and ticks all the right boxes. Dalmore, Royal Brackla and Macallan are all rip-off whiskies (sorry). Now then chaps, Tomatin pretty please.
Tomatin 12 year contest. Nice job guys. Really enjoy your channel and views. Helps me enjoy good scotch without spending thousands on finding out my taste preferences.
Tomatin 12 In my top 5, definitely have Springbank 12 CS, Lagavulin 12 and the rest I'm a bit unsure of. So many delicious 12's out there. Highland Park, Ancnoc, Glen Moray, Glendronach...the list goes on. I've got a 12YO sherry Macallan I'm yet to crack but I'm excited. It is the American bottling at 43%...most other places seem to get it at 40% so obviously not as good.
My #1 12 year old is the 2003 Single Cask Tomatin Oloroso Sherry Butt 57.4% But I really like Aultmore 12 as well. That Tomatin is of the few whiskies I will remember at 95 and long since lost my mind. So balanced between the spirit, European oak and sherry.
Oh and guys I just tried the new Kavalan Sherry oak 46%. I never thought I would even consider buying a taiwanese wet behind the ears whiskey for $130, but dam. It is the most amazing whisky. Reminds me of a cross between Mac12, Mac18 and Glendronach15. It tastes like a scotch not a 5 year whiskey. Get some if you can I just picked up a bottle today after trying my buddies bottle last night.
Great review....Highland Park 12 would definitely make my list, but can't argue with yours. Have never tried the Royal Brackla, but will now! Tomatin 12 contest...awesome.
Great lists fellas...love the Glengoyne and Glendronach. I can't stay away from the Glenmorangie 12yr Quinta Ruban and the Glencadam 12 yr Portwood is excellent as well. Sign me up for the Tomatin. Cheers!
Hi there! I myself have just gotten into Scotch, Bourbons, etc early this year. Have been enjoying tuning into your channel from Austria, and have just subscribed. You guys bring a sense of fun to a pastime that tends towards a certain serious reflective melancholy. It's a nice and appreciated balance you both bring. I have many more yet to try, but my favorite 12yr. now is Bunnahabhain, from texture, mouthfeel, flavor, not so much complexity, but sustained near perfection right through the finish. Cheers, and keep up the good work! Caleb Steingruber
I'm a tad late on this one, but better late than never: 5. Caol Ila ( perennial fav), 4. Deanston (great honeyed oak), 3. Old Pulteney (so different and always something new to find in there), 2. AnCnoc ( a belter due to those citrus and floral highlights), and up on top I'll throw in the Bunnahabhain at No. 1! Just outside that group I'd suggest the Glen Garioch and Aultmore for honorable mentions. In fact, we're spoilt with so many good 12 year olds at the moment (not to mention the Lagavulin 12 - but that's in a completely different price bracket so I'll leave that be). Great show, guys, keep it up! Cheers.
Hey guys... Nice top five you both got... Mine is... in no particular order.. 1. Bunnahabhain 12 2. Glengoyne 12 3. Coal Ila 12 4. Glendronach 12 5. ........ Number 5 is reserved for the tomatin 12...
Macallan, Glengoyne, (and Balcones incidentally) share something in common... Golden Promise barley in the mashbill. I'm wondering if Royal Brackla uses it too but haven't been able to confirm it yet.
I'd like the Tomatin 12! My current list: 1 Lagavulin 12 cask strength 2 Springbank 12 cask strength 3 Ancnoc 12 4 Highland Park 12 5 Glendronach 12 But I like everything on your lists too. Cragganmore-12 and Balvenie 12 single barrel also for honorable mention!
Tomatin 12 giveaway contest. Great show guys. A little shocked that the HP 12 was off Bart's list, interesting. I can't get any Glengoyne here in BC, I am now looking to pick up the Royal Brackla 16, no 12 here.
Nice review guys,. Here my top five 12 yr: #1. Springbank 12 yr Cask Strength (all day long!!!) #2. Bunnahabhain 12 Yr #3. Glendronach 12 yr #4. Macallan 12 Yr #5. Highland Park 12 yr
Good list. Here's a few more: Balvenie 12 single cask, Deanston 12, Balvenie double wood 12, cragganmore 12, kilkerran 12, hazelburn 12, tomatin 12, RECENT or OLD bottlings of fiddich and livet 12, ancnoc 12. Cheers!!
My hubbie loves you guys... as soon as he comes home from work, I hear "TEST IT!" Please enter us in the Tomatin 12 Year Free Contest. Oh and he wants to see some distillery tour vids starting in Kentucky (and I'd like to see Bart do the tours while wearing the giraffe hat)!
Awesome video! I'm late to this party but here's my list of 12s that I've tried. #5 Aberlour 12 #4 Auchentoshan 12 #3 Balvenie 12 Double Cask #2 Macallan 12 #1 Bowmore 12
Tomatin 12 Free Bottle Giveaway. Good selection, I would have to choose Balvenie Doublewood 12, Kilkerran 12, Highland Park 12, Caol Ila 12. I'd like to try the Macallan 12 though
Very nice, gents! Macallan 12 - good choice! I have not tried the Royal Brackla- not available in Korea for some reason. I'm on my second litre bottle of Caol Ila...might do a re-review! I just got the Glengoyne 12 and Dronach 12 - just minis - but enough to Review. Dalmore - just barely scratched the surface on that distillery - had the Alexander - just a sip - excellent. Found the 15 one litre for 65 here. No brainer! I need to find that Brackla. Awesome show! Mark
Count me IN for the Tomatin 12 giveaway! Great list - some seriously good whiskies here. If I had to pick five 12 year old single malts...hmm. Old Pulteney and Royal Brackla definitely make the cut. Highland Park, too. The others...maybe anCnoc and Aberlour? Depending on my mood, I could give the nod to the Macallan or Glen Grant, too. I need to try the 'farclas 12; I like the 10 and LOVE the 15 (which isn't sold in the US...got a bottle at the distillery last summer and just drank the last of it).
great video again guys !!! Tomatin 12 Contest, I'm in, would love to taste it ! big thanks !!! My personnal top 5 12 y.o. 1. Glemorangie quinta ruban 46 abv 2- Benriach 12 sherry cask 46 abv 3- Glenfarclas 12 43 abv 4- glenmorangie The Santa 43 abv 5- Aberlour 12 40 abv
Thanks for the shout out. Another great show. Think Bart's being a bit too hard on his hats. Please sign me up for the Tomatin 12 contest. I had a bottle, but my sister drank it. It was a little too good as an introductory Scotch. Thanks
I tend to lean more towards Bart's tastes when it comes to scotch/bourbon. His sense of fashion on the other hand is a different story. Keep up the good work boys. My bar has grown exponentially since following your channel.
Springbank 12 Green is probably the best 12 year single malt I had this past year. Then again, not nearly as available (or affordable!) as your list. Thanks guys.
I think I prefer the GlenDronach 12 over the Mac12 bc of the oloroso / px combo and also being non chill filtered. A blind tasting would settle it though. Cheers!
Idea - put a Glencairn/design glass into the bottom of the bottle. When it's gone you can cut the glass out and have a Norlan style Glencairn. Patent pending.
Here my list! arran 12 cask strength batch 5 The Glendronach Original 12Y the balvenie single barrel First fill 12y aultmore of the foggie moss 12y Aberlour 12Y I also mixed some glengoyne 10 and 15, tasty! Does that count for a 12y too ;) ?
I'd like to register for the Tomatin 12 Contest Giveaway. Big fan of you guys! I've enjoyed your evolution on screen as well. Here's my top 5 @ 12 Years: 1. Highland Park 12-Year Old Viking Honour 2. Lagavulin 12 Years Limited Edition Natural Cask Strength 3. Glenfiddich 12 Years Signature Malt 4. Johnnie Walker Black Label 12-Years Blended Scotch Whisky 5. Auchentoshen 12 Years Old I agree it's tough with the 12-Year, I just haven't tried enough different bottles with that age. The Macallan 12-Year Old Double Cask is now available at LCBO, so I'll have to try that soon, and I suspect it would be on this list. I've gotta try Caol Ila 12 also, since I love the smoky whisky! Sláinte!
Who doesn't love top lists?? Mine would be something like Caol Ila 12, Aberlour 12, Highland Park 12, Redbreast 12 (lower strength, haven't had the cask strength) and I also have a soft spot for Cardhu 12.
Tomatin 12 year old giveaway. Also, I've really enjoyed watching the two of you come into your own as whisky fans and reviewers. It's great to see honest reviews.I bought the Glendronach 12 after watching your review of it, by the way.
Kinda disappointed you didn't include the Tomatin 12, this one is fantastic. It's disappearing from my bar all the time. I do agree with you both on McCallan 12 that's a fine one to have around. I will give a try to several of the other selected scotches you did. I have never been lead astray by any of your reviews. Keep it up Dummies.
Tomatin 12 baby!!!!........awesome show guys. I just bought the Glendronach 12 and the Benriach 12 sherry cask........they are basically the same but the Benriach is at 46% instead of 43%. (since glendronach is owned by benriach which is now owned by JD :D ). Check out some stores and see if the Benriach is available over there. cheers.
I tried my first ever "The Macallan" 12 today. During my scotch journey with you guys and the 4 other dummies my alcohol by volume tolerance and enjoyment keeps getting higher and higher I notice. But this baby delivers at 43 %. Just like Lagavulin 16 at 43%. Sweet spot? Thanks for your recommendation on this baby Scott, you nailed it. Great bottle.
Tomatin 12 contest, I would love to TEST IT! My favorite 12 are as of now 5 Caol Ila 12 4 Balvenie 12 DW 3 Glenmorangie 12 Nectar D'or Tie for 1 &2 Macallan 12, GlenDronach 12
Great show guys, keep them coming... I like the Lag 12 which I thought would of been #1 on Bart's list... oh yeah, Tomatin 12 contest. Thanks for the great work
Tomatin 12 was my first bottle of scotch whisky - please enter me in the contest! My top 5 12yrs 1)Bunnahabhain 12 2)Glendronach 12 3)Caol Ila 12 4)Highland Park 12 5)Tomatin 12
I'd love the tomatin 12 giveaway bottle! Great vid. My favorite five 12 year olds are: 5. Royal Lochnagar 4. Ancnoc 3. Lagavulin cask strength. 2. Glendronach. 1. Edradour Caledonia. (big surprise, I know)
I'm no Dummy, please put me down for a chance to win the Tomatin 12! By the way, every purchase I've made per your reviews have been spot on perfect!! Thanks, you guys rock!!! You're my go to review source!
Another great show! Scott, I agree with your number 1. The MAC 12 is still very reasonable unlike the 18. Please register me for the tomatin 12. Thanks again guys!
Tomatin 12 year Contest!!! ....I enjoyed a nice dram of 10 Year Laphroaig Cask Strength while watching.....As always love your Videos and it looks like I'm going to have to spend some more money and try some more fine scotches!!...I've got "The Dalmore" in my sights for my next purchase! Cheers.
I like springbank, but I haven't had any of the others. I usually stick to bourbon. But the springbank really his the spot after bourbons and redbreast. I will be getting macallen and brackla now asap. Enter me for tomatin
Haven't watched it yet... mine would be Tomatin, Balvenie Doublewood, Old Pultney, Highland Park and Glenfarclas. Lets see how you boys did! Okay... all done. Good picks. I had forgotten about the Glendronach. Toss me into the Tomatin 12 giveaway since I actually had it in MY Top 5 :)
I found Royal Brackla to be really subpar compared to other 12 years I've had, wonder what you all would see in that whisky. My top 5 would probably be: Springbank 12 CS Glendronach 12 Caol Ila 12 Arran 12 CS Bunnahabhain 12
tomato...damn autocorrect Tomatin 12 yr, let's Test It! Great list fellas, you guys hit the high notes on the 12 years. Caol Ila? Check. Glendro? Check. I would add a Balvenie 12 yr, either DBL wood or new release single barrel. Both are top 5 worthy imo. As well as the 12 yr Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban. Strong work gents, cheers!
I would love the Tomatin. I got 2 bottles of Glendronach on clearance a few months back. Looking forward to opening it now. Not sure if I was being smart or cheap.
Cheers again guys, great show! My choices would be 1) Lagavulin 12, 2) Springbank 12 CS, 3) AnCnoc 12, 4) Glen Garioch 12 & 5) ... leaving space for Tomatin 12 to crack the list ;) Also, please sign me up for the contest :)
Great choices..! I would have sworn Bart would have gone with a peated single malt for his No. 1 I will remain faithful to my favorite 12 y.o.. Balvenie 12 First Fill..!!!
I wonder whether the younger peated scotches are produced as the peat tends to cut through the youthful spirit, whereas that youthfulness cuts through sherry and bourbon creating an over powering alcoholic note for many. Lacks that 'smooth' characteristic. Thoughts? Great vid gents!
Tomatin 12! Tomatin 12! Thanks for another great video - of course this video would have been more fun if you tried all 5 in one sitting... Macallan 12 is my go-to. A big plus is that I think it's easy to share with non-Scotch folk
Tomatin 12 giveaway. Enjoyed the video and my 5 are: Springbank 12 cask strength Arran 12 Glendronach 12 Aultmore 12 Glengoyne 12 .... so a fair amount of overlap, perhaps you cannot get some of the others on my list in Kansas. Just ordered a bottle of royal Brackla on teh strength of your conviction. I have enjoyed a glass of Macallan in bars, but I always look at what else I could buy at that price point and so have never bought a bottle.
It's interesting how often people bond with their first scotch. In my case, balvenie doublewood was my first and least favorite scotch to this day. My favorite is the Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban, my second bottle. I'll try to collect all the bottles on your list. What a helpful Scotch Test! Thx. Please enter me in the Tomatin giveaway. I'd like to try that on too.
Tomatin 12 giveaway! Would love to try it. Tomatin 18 was delicious. I really like your lists and here are two other 12's that I thought were pretty good. Old Pulteney (great price) and Cragganmore (enjoyed it with cigars a lot).
4:56 - #5 - Glenfarclas 12
6:47 - #5 - Macallan 12
8:52 - #4 - Royal Brackla 12
10:21- #4 - Caol Ila 12
13:28 - #3 - Glengoyne 12
16:07 - #3 - Dalmore 12
18:57 - #2 - Glendronach 12 for both reviewers
22:03 - #1 - Macallan 12
25:28 - #1 - Royal Brackla 12
Thanks Johnny Blaze we should have done that a long time ago. BTW we talk a lot.
Great channel guys. Just subscribed.
1. Balvenie 12 Double Wood2. Macallan 123. Bunnahabhain 124. Aberlour A'bunahd5. Dalwhinnie 15
hey we see what you did there.
Great list of 12 years. The GlenDronach 12 is one of our Favs. Would love to try the Tomatin 12. Giving some love from one set of Dummies to another.
Thanks guys! Been watching your reviews for awhile now. Getting good!
Awesome video once again! Each day I learn a little more by watching your videos, keep up the great work!
Thanks East Coast
I sold our last two bottles of G'goyne 12 at work this weekend based on your affinity for that release, as well as sending them to the STD channel. They often seem interested in checking it out. I use my coin #172 as an ice-breaker.
Nice Jeff! Keep it up, you'll earn the title of west coast regional marketing manager!
As a first time whiskey/whisky drinker, I went with the McCallan 12 and the double cask. Totally blew me away. Keep up the good work.
Great to know Jake. Thanks for tuning in!
Appreciate that Bart had Coal Ila on his list. The 17 y.o. Coal Ila Unpeated is excellent with subtle hint of peat. My list would add Glenkinchie & Old Pulteney. Have to try Brackla. Now tempted to open the 21 y.o. Glengoyne I just brought back from their distillery. Tomatin 12 is another good one.
excellent list!
Scotch Test Dummies Just snagged a bottle of Glenkinchie 14 yo Distillers Edition. Really tasty, finished in Amontillado sherry casks. Cheaper than the 12 yo. Score!
sounds like a great find!
Great lists, boys. I would have dropped the Old Pulteney 12 into the mix along with the Bunnahabhain 12 and Cragganmore 12. Heck, even the Cardhu 12 is a great dram. So many to choose from! I have a bottle of The Tomatin 12 so I'll pass on the contest. Cheers.
Thanks Munro...great bottles you listed.
Thumbs up from The Netherlands and here's my personal top 5 of 12 year old whisky:
5) Glengoyne
4) Arran
3) Caol Ila
2) Glendronach
1) Bunnahabhain
great list!
Not bad a choice, Dummies. I love the Macallan12 very much too. it was my personal breakthrough experience decades ago. my actual Nr1 would by Springbank12cs .I just opened a bottle of it last night and it's amazing!
👍
Love your comment about guys taking themselves too seriously! It's not school, it's fun! Great job fellas👍🏻 -Graeme
Boom! Whisky should be fun!!! fun and more fun
I agree with the first mention... Glenfarclas 12... A winner for sure! I get it in Massachusetts for $35!!! I just got a bottle of Glenfarclas 10 for $39! Another winner!
that is a great buy! thanks John.
Free Tomatin 12 Contest. I appreciate that I don't feel like I'm being "schooled" by an "expert" telling me what I should like. With you two it's more like sitting around, shooting the bull, with a couple of buds who know their scotches and have tried a boatload of them. Keep 'em coming guys. Sláinte!
thank you Hoyet, that's our goal. registered.
Excellent quick combo wrap up review. Between the Glengoyne 12 & Macallan 12 sherry cask, Which one taste more rich Sweet delicions ?. Thanks.
The Glengoyne is a lighter sweeter sherry influence whereas the Macallan 12 is exclusively matured in sherry so it brings a little of the darker sherry notes than the Glengoyne does. Love both, but the Macallan 12 wins that one for me. Scott
Thanks Good Choices Dummy. What is your suggestion on 3 un-chill filtered scotch that has % high ABV and A Delicious SWEET HEAVY Mouth Coating WOW ...WOW from them. Please let me know, I searching for those dessert types. I am new.
try the Glendronachs, Macallan Classic Cut and Tamdhu Batch Strength
Nice one, guys! Great scotches you listed there! The Brackla was news to me. Gotta test it! I'm all in for the free Tomitin 12y giveavay contest! btw I visited Tomitin in october. Great tour! Great people. Here is my alternative list: 1. Bunna 12 - 2. Kilkerran 12 - 3. Old Pulteney 12 - 4. Cragganmore 12 - 5. Highland Park 12. I am with you on the Glens but I have only tasted the older ones ;) Cheers from Oslo, Norway.
You are in the contest Ebbhead and great to hear from Norway...we have been picking up a lot of fans there...keep spreading the word. Love your top 5
The 5 that will always be in my stash
1) Tobermoray
2) Bunnahabhain
3) GlenAllichie
4) Glen Garrioch
5) Deanston.
All these are available without much work and all under £45. 00 UK. all 46% or over, NCF, and no added colour.
Enjoy guys and keep having fun.
Very good list
Love all the ones you listed. The Glendronach 12 and Glengoyne 12 are a staple on my shelf at all times.
Good show guys, even the shirts. lol.
i just discovered the glengoyne, but i guarantee its a staple.
I'm a big fan of the show you guys always give me a laugh. I have 2 of your challenge coins 96 and 98 from Oban little bay and 2 glasses all I need is some Free scotch. keep up the good work guys.
and we appreciate it Patrick! you are entered in the draw!
I've got to admit I'm a Bourbon guy but since I've been watching your show I've tried several scotch's. Sorry Bart but I'm having trouble with the peat. Id love to try the Tomatin 12. Maybe that would help me get over you flaunting the Elijah Craig barrel proof I cant find...lol. Once again nice show guys, really appreciate your input.
Thanks Brett you are in the drawing. Truth be told at my first scotch tasting I sampled some Ardbeg 10 and it was too much for me. All I got at the time was ashtray bandaids. It was about a year later that Compass Box Peat Monster won my heart. Bart
Great video, thanks for coming back to Scotch!
My top five 12 YO malts based on what I've tried so far are (in no particular order):
Lagavulin 12YO Limited Edition CS (probably the best Lagavulin official bottling)
Springbank 12YO CS
Macallan 12YO Sherry matured - a classic!
Glenmorangie 12 YO Quinta Ruban (port genius)
Glendronach 12 YO
Honorable mentions: Glengoyne 12; Glenmorangie Nectar D'or
jackpot!
For some peat, Kilkerran 12yo would make my top 5. Really liked Tomatin Dual Chas/Legacy - enter me for the 12 - would love to try. All the best guys - slainte!
Thanks Slattery, you help make it possible!
Great review guys! Love your vlogs. My top 5 are Glendronach 12, Highland park 12, Ancnoc 12, Tomatin 12 and Balvenie 12 Triple cask.
good picks Sid.
Tomatin 12.
Some 12s I'd recommend are, Springbank 12 cask strength, Hazelburn 12, Bunnahabhain 12, Deanston 12, Glenmorangie 12 extra matured range (Lasanta sherry (oloroso and PX), Quinta Ruben port, nectar d'or sauterne)
got it, thanks conor!
Nice. The Tomatin 12 Bourbon and Sherry Casks is a winner. Very good for the price.
yes it is sixgunsam!
Great show guys, always a ton of fun, your approach is a welcome change to the prototypical scotch reviewer. Highland Park 12 would be in my top 5 for sure. Glendronach 12 is there too.
Thanks Loknes. We believe Scotch is an explosion of joy. We try to match.
STD, I have not had all of the one's you've mentioned, but from the one's that I've tried, I would have to go with the Glendronach 12 or Caol Ila 12. Include me in for the register of the Tomatin 12. Great review.
thanks keith!
Tomatin 12 - Great show. like both of your guys top 5 mine would be 1-The Balvenie 12 dw, 2-Caol ila 12 3Highland Park 12 4 ,Macallan 12. 5, Aberfeldy 12
got it! great list
Great review lads. Interesting list and I have to admit I've not tried some of them. I've been blessed with a very fine collection of independent 12 year bottlings this year. One or two excellent 11 year old's too, including an outstanding Gordon & Macphail Caol Ila at cask strength aged in four first fill sherry butts. My list of the distillery offerings in no particular order.
Lagavulin 12 - That's the peaty one you forgot to mention and it's an absolute boss at cask strength.
Springbank 12 Cask Strength - Unique Springbank goodness.
Balvenie 12 Single Barrel First Fill - Terrific ex-bourbon at a punchy strength.
Benriach 12 - Quality sherried expression at a great price. (no colour or chill-filtration and 46%) - Glendronach 12 on another day.
Bunnahabhain 12 - One of my go to whiskies and ticks all the right boxes.
Dalmore, Royal Brackla and Macallan are all rip-off whiskies (sorry). Now then chaps, Tomatin pretty please.
Very nice list Toro. We have a hard time finding some of those independent bottlings here in Kansas.
Tomatin 12 year contest. Nice job guys. Really enjoy your channel and views. Helps me enjoy good scotch without spending thousands on finding out my taste preferences.
BAM! Rich is on to something. You are in on the contest and thanks
Found your channel yesterday and love it! Keep it up guys! A big thank you for sharing all your experiences! You have a new Brazilian fan!
thanks Marcus! just saw this comment!
Tomatin 12
In my top 5, definitely have Springbank 12 CS, Lagavulin 12 and the rest I'm a bit unsure of. So many delicious 12's out there. Highland Park, Ancnoc, Glen Moray, Glendronach...the list goes on. I've got a 12YO sherry Macallan I'm yet to crack but I'm excited. It is the American bottling at 43%...most other places seem to get it at 40% so obviously not as good.
thanks Andrew!
My #1 12 year old is the 2003 Single Cask Tomatin Oloroso Sherry Butt 57.4% But I really like Aultmore 12 as well. That Tomatin is of the few whiskies I will remember at 95 and long since lost my mind. So balanced between the spirit, European oak and sherry.
sounds delicious.
Oh and guys I just tried the new Kavalan Sherry oak 46%. I never thought I would even consider buying a taiwanese wet behind the ears whiskey for $130, but dam. It is the most amazing whisky. Reminds me of a cross between Mac12, Mac18 and Glendronach15. It tastes like a scotch not a 5 year whiskey. Get some if you can I just picked up a bottle today after trying my buddies bottle last night.
sounds like my kind of whiskey! Scott
Great review....Highland Park 12 would definitely make my list, but can't argue with yours. Have never tried the Royal Brackla, but will now! Tomatin 12 contest...awesome.
thanks Montana!
Great lists fellas...love the Glengoyne and Glendronach. I can't stay away from the Glenmorangie 12yr Quinta Ruban and the Glencadam 12 yr Portwood is excellent as well. Sign me up for the Tomatin. Cheers!
Pertain is signed up and we too have some bottles that are looking to put restraining orders on the Dummies.
Hi there! I myself have just gotten into Scotch, Bourbons, etc early this year. Have been enjoying tuning into your channel from Austria, and have just subscribed. You guys bring a sense of fun to a pastime that tends towards a certain serious reflective melancholy. It's a nice and appreciated balance you both bring. I have many more yet to try, but my favorite 12yr. now is Bunnahabhain, from texture, mouthfeel, flavor, not so much complexity, but sustained near perfection right through the finish. Cheers, and keep up the good work!
Caleb Steingruber
Thanks Caleb, great comments!
I'm a tad late on this one, but better late than never: 5. Caol Ila ( perennial fav), 4. Deanston (great honeyed oak), 3. Old Pulteney (so different and always something new to find in there), 2. AnCnoc ( a belter due to those citrus and floral highlights), and up on top I'll throw in the Bunnahabhain at No. 1! Just outside that group I'd suggest the Glen Garioch and Aultmore for honorable mentions. In fact, we're spoilt with so many good 12 year olds at the moment (not to mention the Lagavulin 12 - but that's in a completely different price bracket so I'll leave that be). Great show, guys, keep it up! Cheers.
Never too late. Great list Russell.
Hey guys...
Nice top five you both got...
Mine is... in no particular order..
1. Bunnahabhain 12
2. Glengoyne 12
3. Coal Ila 12
4. Glendronach 12
5. ........
Number 5 is reserved for the tomatin 12...
nice, i see what you did there.
Macallan, Glengoyne, (and Balcones incidentally) share something in common... Golden Promise barley in the mashbill. I'm wondering if Royal Brackla uses it too but haven't been able to confirm it yet.
we just reviewed the 16 Year Brackla, really enjoy that one!
I'd like the Tomatin 12!
My current list:
1 Lagavulin 12 cask strength
2 Springbank 12 cask strength
3 Ancnoc 12
4 Highland Park 12
5 Glendronach 12
But I like everything on your lists too. Cragganmore-12 and Balvenie 12 single barrel also for honorable mention!
thanks neilgmail, got it!
Bunnahabain 12 is top of my list. The Balvenie 12 triple cask is a close second. Great show keep up the good work.
Tomatin 12 free contest!
Thanks robert. we love this good work!!!!
Bunnahabin 12 is so good! $50 in my area!
Tomatin 12 giveaway contest. Great show guys. A little shocked that the HP 12 was off Bart's list, interesting. I can't get any Glengoyne here in BC, I am now looking to pick up the Royal Brackla 16, no 12 here.
registered! thanks peter!
Congratulations Peter! You won the Tomatin contest! Send us an email at scotchtestdummies@gmail.com and we'll forward your information on to Tomatin!
Nice review guys,.
Here my top five 12 yr:
#1. Springbank 12 yr Cask Strength (all day long!!!)
#2. Bunnahabhain 12 Yr
#3. Glendronach 12 yr
#4. Macallan 12 Yr
#5. Highland Park 12 yr
great list Corey!
Good list. Here's a few more: Balvenie 12 single cask, Deanston 12, Balvenie double wood 12, cragganmore 12, kilkerran 12, hazelburn 12, tomatin 12, RECENT or OLD bottlings of fiddich and livet 12, ancnoc 12. Cheers!!
Triplecap and Corey, fine taste gentleman!
I'd like add an exceptional underdog; Blair Athol 12.
hey, thats more than 5!
My hubbie loves you guys... as soon as he comes home from work, I hear "TEST IT!" Please enter us in the Tomatin 12 Year Free Contest. Oh and he wants to see some distillery tour vids starting in Kentucky (and I'd like to see Bart do the tours while wearing the giraffe hat)!
why thanks Hoyweewoot. Hope your husband doesn't get jealous you're spending time with us when he's gone! Giraffe hat on the tours is a good call.
Bart here...I'm running form that hat...I may never live the giraffe down
Awesome video! I'm late to this party but here's my list of 12s that I've tried.
#5 Aberlour 12
#4 Auchentoshan 12
#3 Balvenie 12 Double Cask
#2 Macallan 12
#1 Bowmore 12
never late Travis! great list!
Tomatin 12 Free Bottle Giveaway. Good selection, I would have to choose Balvenie Doublewood 12, Kilkerran 12, Highland Park 12, Caol Ila 12. I'd like to try the Macallan 12 though
Boom! You are in the contest Alastair and a very nice Top 5 you have.
Very nice, gents! Macallan 12 - good choice! I have not tried the Royal Brackla- not available in Korea for some reason. I'm on my second litre bottle of Caol Ila...might do a re-review! I just got the Glengoyne 12 and Dronach 12 - just minis - but enough to Review. Dalmore - just barely scratched the surface on that distillery - had the Alexander - just a sip - excellent. Found the 15 one litre for 65 here. No brainer! I need to find that Brackla. Awesome show!
Mark
thanks Mark!
Count me IN for the Tomatin 12 giveaway! Great list - some seriously good whiskies here. If I had to pick five 12 year old single malts...hmm. Old Pulteney and Royal Brackla definitely make the cut. Highland Park, too. The others...maybe anCnoc and Aberlour? Depending on my mood, I could give the nod to the Macallan or Glen Grant, too. I need to try the 'farclas 12; I like the 10 and LOVE the 15 (which isn't sold in the US...got a bottle at the distillery last summer and just drank the last of it).
got it, thanks Kevin!
Driftwood & seagulls. Nice descriptors! Now I need me some Glengoyne 12 based on that alone... One adult ticket for the Tomatin 12 show please.
one adult ticket indeed.
great video again guys !!! Tomatin 12 Contest, I'm in, would love to taste it ! big thanks !!!
My personnal top 5 12 y.o.
1. Glemorangie quinta ruban 46 abv
2- Benriach 12 sherry cask 46 abv
3- Glenfarclas 12 43 abv
4- glenmorangie The Santa 43 abv
5- Aberlour 12 40 abv
great list!
Thanks for the shout out. Another great show. Think Bart's being a bit too hard on his hats. Please sign me up for the Tomatin 12 contest. I had a bottle, but my sister drank it. It was a little too good as an introductory Scotch. Thanks
thanks to you Jerry! registered!
I tend to lean more towards Bart's tastes when it comes to scotch/bourbon. His sense of fashion on the other hand is a different story. Keep up the good work boys. My bar has grown exponentially since following your channel.
thanks Ryan. Good call on Barts fashion.
What??? who doesn't like a good gardening hat mixed with a manga shirt?
Springbank 12 Green is probably the best 12 year single malt I had this past year. Then again, not nearly as available (or affordable!) as your list. Thanks guys.
thanks ruskiimperial!
I think I prefer the GlenDronach 12 over the Mac12 bc of the oloroso / px combo and also being non chill filtered. A blind tasting would settle it though. Cheers!
better test it!
Idea - put a Glencairn/design glass into the bottom of the bottle. When it's gone you can cut the glass out and have a Norlan style Glencairn. Patent pending.
do it!
Here my list!
arran 12 cask strength batch 5
The Glendronach Original 12Y
the balvenie single barrel First fill 12y
aultmore of the foggie moss 12y
Aberlour 12Y
I also mixed some glengoyne 10 and 15, tasty! Does that count for a 12y too ;) ?
Great list Jaron...we are tracking this and by we...we mean Scott so add in your Top 5 and be part of the fun!!!!
Awesome review fellas...you guys need to try BenRiach 12 yr, I think its better than the GlenDronach 12 & Macallan 12.
thanks chasing classic whiskies!
I'd like to register for the Tomatin 12 Contest Giveaway.
Big fan of you guys! I've enjoyed your evolution on screen as well.
Here's my top 5 @ 12 Years:
1. Highland Park 12-Year Old Viking Honour
2. Lagavulin 12 Years Limited Edition Natural Cask Strength
3. Glenfiddich 12 Years Signature Malt
4. Johnnie Walker Black Label 12-Years Blended Scotch Whisky
5. Auchentoshen 12 Years Old
I agree it's tough with the 12-Year, I just haven't tried enough different bottles with that age. The Macallan 12-Year Old Double Cask is now available at LCBO, so I'll have to try that soon, and I suspect it would be on this list. I've gotta try Caol Ila 12 also, since I love the smoky whisky!
Sláinte!
Thanks for watching Dylan. registered!
Scotch Test Dummies Cool! I just remembered, Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 12-Year Old would definitely make my top 5.
Great lists guys. Surprised I didn't see a Bunnahabhain 12 mentioned. Would love to try that Tomatin 12.
thanks vaquero.
Recently got into scotch. I started with Highland park 12 yr and I'm enjoying it. Would love to expand the collection. PS. I like your shirts!
there's a lot out there! HP 12 is a good place to start.
A top 5 list without Highland Park 12? You guys are brave!
Boom, that just happened!
Who doesn't love top lists??
Mine would be something like Caol Ila 12, Aberlour 12, Highland Park 12, Redbreast 12 (lower strength, haven't had the cask strength) and I also have a soft spot for Cardhu 12.
Great list ArtMorte...we love Top 5's and plan on doing more.
dont sneak the Irish in there (Redbreast)!
Oh, right, forgot already it was only scotches. Those sneaky Irish!
Tomatin 12 year old giveaway. Also, I've really enjoyed watching the two of you come into your own as whisky fans and reviewers. It's great to see honest reviews.I bought the Glendronach 12 after watching your review of it, by the way.
Nice, thanks Daniel!
Kinda disappointed you didn't include the Tomatin 12, this one is fantastic. It's disappearing from my bar all the time. I do agree with you both on McCallan 12 that's a fine one to have around. I will give a try to several of the other selected scotches you did. I have never been lead astray by any of your reviews.
Keep it up Dummies.
thanks Jerry!
Tomatin 12 baby!!!!........awesome show guys. I just bought the Glendronach 12 and the Benriach 12 sherry cask........they are basically the same but the Benriach is at 46% instead of 43%. (since glendronach is owned by benriach which is now owned by JD :D ). Check out some stores and see if the Benriach is available over there. cheers.
BOOM! Arash is in. Years ago Bart had some Benriach...we do need to feature them on the show.
thanks Arash.
I agree with the Kilkerran 12 making my list. Thanks for doing this, dummies!
thanks for watching Noko!
I tried my first ever "The Macallan" 12 today. During my scotch journey with you guys and the 4 other dummies my alcohol by volume tolerance and enjoyment keeps getting higher and higher I notice. But this baby delivers at 43 %. Just like Lagavulin 16 at 43%. Sweet spot? Thanks for your recommendation on this baby Scott, you nailed it. Great bottle.
awesome thanks SDD!
wondering what is the pool of 12 years old Scotch you guys have and how did Highland Park 12 and Old Pultaney 12 fare in the selection?
we had around 20 12 year olds that we'd reviewed. The HP got an honorable mention, but not the Old Pulteney.
Tomatin 12 contest, I would love to TEST IT!
My favorite 12 are as of now
5 Caol Ila 12
4 Balvenie 12 DW
3 Glenmorangie 12 Nectar D'or
Tie for 1 &2
Macallan 12, GlenDronach 12
a lot of love for the macallan coming in. thanks Ivan.
Good show! Would love to test the Tomatin 12 :-) Johnnie Walker Black is the only 12 yo scotch I've tried, quite smooth for a blended whisky I think.
johnnie walker black is what got me started, but didn't make the list. scott
I quite like the Tomatin 12. You guys are great!
thanks spooty!
Great show guys, keep them coming... I like the Lag 12 which I thought would of been #1 on Bart's list... oh yeah, Tomatin 12 contest. Thanks for the great work
we haven't had the lagavulin 12, we need to try it. registered.
Tomatin 12 was my first bottle of scotch whisky - please enter me in the contest!
My top 5 12yrs
1)Bunnahabhain 12
2)Glendronach 12
3)Caol Ila 12
4)Highland Park 12
5)Tomatin 12
thanks Nathan. entered.
I'd love the tomatin 12 giveaway bottle!
Great vid.
My favorite five 12 year olds are:
5. Royal Lochnagar
4. Ancnoc
3. Lagavulin cask strength.
2. Glendronach.
1. Edradour Caledonia. (big surprise, I know)
Got it, thanks Moshe!
I'm no Dummy, please put me down for a chance to win the Tomatin 12! By the way, every purchase I've made per your reviews have been spot on perfect!! Thanks, you guys rock!!! You're my go to review source!
thanks Dan!
Another great show! Scott, I agree with your number 1. The MAC 12 is still very reasonable unlike the 18. Please register me for the tomatin 12. Thanks again guys!
registered! Thanks Mike.
Tomatin 12 year Contest!!! ....I enjoyed a nice dram of 10 Year Laphroaig Cask Strength while watching.....As always love your Videos and it looks like I'm going to have to spend some more money and try some more fine scotches!!...I've got "The Dalmore" in my sights for my next purchase! Cheers.
registered! thanks rollingthunder33a!
I like springbank, but I haven't had any of the others. I usually stick to bourbon. But the springbank really his the spot after bourbons and redbreast. I will be getting macallen and brackla now asap. Enter me for tomatin
All good...the Tomatin contest is sadly over...may be more in the future
I disagree with the Dalmore 12. Overpriced 12yr bottle thats like an Aberlour. You guys are on point with the rest
we need to reshoot this and see if our list has changed the last couple years.
Love all those in both lists! Great work guys.
thanks James!
Great video Guys! Thanks for posting.
thanks G Man!
Haven't watched it yet... mine would be Tomatin, Balvenie Doublewood, Old Pultney, Highland Park and Glenfarclas. Lets see how you boys did! Okay... all done. Good picks. I had forgotten about the Glendronach. Toss me into the Tomatin 12 giveaway since I actually had it in MY Top 5 :)
tune in!
I found Royal Brackla to be really subpar compared to other 12 years I've had, wonder what you all would see in that whisky. My top 5 would probably be:
Springbank 12 CS
Glendronach 12
Caol Ila 12
Arran 12 CS
Bunnahabhain 12
Great list Hal. Bart just loves that Royal Brackla 12
tomato...damn autocorrect Tomatin 12 yr, let's Test It!
Great list fellas, you guys hit the high notes on the 12 years. Caol Ila? Check. Glendro? Check. I would add a Balvenie 12 yr, either DBL wood or new release single barrel. Both are top 5 worthy imo. As well as the 12 yr Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban. Strong work gents, cheers!
thanks Andrew!
I would love the Tomatin. I got 2 bottles of Glendronach on clearance a few months back. Looking forward to opening it now. Not sure if I was being smart or cheap.
good call on the glendronach.
Cheers again guys, great show!
My choices would be 1) Lagavulin 12, 2) Springbank 12 CS, 3) AnCnoc 12, 4) Glen Garioch 12 & 5) ... leaving space for Tomatin 12 to crack the list ;) Also, please sign me up for the contest :)
great list, signed up!
Very good review of your top five 12 year single malts.
I'm in for the Tomatin 12 yr free contest.
My top 5:
Bunnahabhain 12
Aberlour 12
Caol Ila 12
Macallan 12
Glenfarclas 12
great list, popular ones on it.
Great choices..! I would have sworn Bart would have gone with a peated single malt for his No. 1
I will remain faithful to my favorite 12 y.o.. Balvenie 12 First Fill..!!!
we haven't reviewed that one yet.
Tomatin 12 Yr
Great video once again!
My Top 5:
#1 Royal Brackla 12
#2 Macallan 12
#3 Highland Park 12
#4 Glengoyne 12
#5 Balvenie 12
got it, thanks Ruben!
what about Highland 12, I'm pleasantly surprised you guys mentioned Glengoyne. I think its often overlooked.
HP 12 would probably make a lot of peoples lists!
Tomatin 12 free bottle give away. Love the show guys and Bart thanks for the advice. Thanks for all you do to serve and protect.
thank you Ryan!
I wonder whether the younger peated scotches are produced as the peat tends to cut through the youthful spirit, whereas that youthfulness cuts through sherry and bourbon creating an over powering alcoholic note for many. Lacks that 'smooth' characteristic. Thoughts? Great vid gents!
good question Doctor!
Tomatin 12! Tomatin 12!
Thanks for another great video - of course this video would have been more fun if you tried all 5 in one sitting...
Macallan 12 is my go-to. A big plus is that I think it's easy to share with non-Scotch folk
this is why you're my favorite (scott). registered for the contest.
Great to see the Glendronach in there. All over that Tomatin, great distillery.
got it Roy. thanks.
Tomatin 12 giveaway. Enjoyed the video and my 5 are:
Springbank 12 cask strength
Arran 12
Glendronach 12
Aultmore 12
Glengoyne 12 .... so a fair amount of overlap, perhaps you cannot get some of the others on my list in Kansas.
Just ordered a bottle of royal Brackla on teh strength of your conviction. I have enjoyed a glass of Macallan in bars, but I always look at what else I could buy at that price point and so have never bought a bottle.
a lot of glendronachs, glengoynes, and springbanks showing up in lists.
I had forgotten how good the Glengoyne was until I looked at my rating on whiskybase. Must order another bottle
the glengoyne 18 has got to be one of my favs, and an absolute steal at the $99 i paid for it.
Scotch Test Dummies I totally agree.
register TOMATIN 12 absolutely............enjoyed review as always.......
registered Dr! thanks!
It's interesting how often people bond with their first scotch. In my case, balvenie doublewood was my first and least favorite scotch to this day. My favorite is the Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban, my second bottle. I'll try to collect all the bottles on your list. What a helpful Scotch Test! Thx. Please enter me in the Tomatin giveaway. I'd like to try that on too.
great comments Vesbolk!
Tomatin 12 giveaway! Would love to try it. Tomatin 18 was delicious. I really like your lists and here are two other 12's that I thought were pretty good. Old Pulteney (great price) and Cragganmore (enjoyed it with cigars a lot).
got it! thanks richard.
Tomatin 12 contest. I really like the Macallan 12 as well. It's always an easy pick at a bar / restaurant.
The Tomatin 12 contest ended last Saturday Jason but the good news is there is another one starting this Saturday...tune in