Introduction
For Season 8, we’re starting with something affordable and accessible: Old Pulteney 12 Year Single Malt Scotch. This Highland Scotch whisky, aged for 12 years in ex-bourbon casks, comes in at 80 proof. It’s the kind of whisky that’s perfect for introducing yourself to single malts without breaking the bank. We love to kick off a new season with something that appeals to a broad audience, and Old Pulteney fits that bill.
The following review is taken from our episode "Rain Man / Old Pulteney 12-Year Single Malt Scotch." Click the link to listen to this review in audio format.
Nose
Brad: The nose on this one is incredible, Bob. Every time we drink Scotch, I’m reminded why it’s so good. Here, I’m getting honey drizzle, and the barley comes through prominently. There’s a decent amount of vanilla from the bourbon casks, and after spending more time with it, I picked up some beautiful rose floral notes. I’m giving it an 8.5/10.
Bob: I’m going to be a little lower than you, Brad. I get a lot of melon, floral notes, and citrus on the nose. It’s really fruity upfront, but there’s also a grainy presence that I don’t love as much. It’s like a mix between our favorite Glenmorangies and some more affordable blended Scotches. Given the price point, though, it makes sense. I’ll give it a 7.5/10.
Taste
Brad: On the palate, the fruitiness continues. I’m getting a ton of grapefruit, some dark chocolate, and toffee notes. There’s even a hint of ginger spice that adds a unique touch. Overall, this is a really solid, above-average Scotch. I’m giving it an 8/10.
Bob: I’m sticking with a 7.5/10. I got most of the notes you mentioned, but for me, there’s also a hint of black coffee. I didn’t pick up on the ginger, but I wish I had—that would have been a great balance to everything else. It’s solid, but not mind-blowing.
Finish
Bob: The finish is where I struggled with this whisky. There’s not much of a finish at all. I just finished another sip, and the flavor is already gone. I’m giving it a 7/10—it’s pleasant, but nearly non-existent.
Brad: I agree. Adding a few more proof points might have helped the finish stand out more. It’s fine as it is, with some sea salt, lemon zest, and vanilla bean from the bourbon barrels coming through, but it falls apart a bit at the end. I’m at a 7.5/10 for the finish.
Balance
Brad: I’m giving it an 8/10 on balance. The flavor profile is consistent throughout, and there’s enough complexity to keep it interesting. It doesn’t stand out as exceptional, but it’s solid overall.
Bob: I’m sticking with a 7/10 on balance. Everything here is balanced, but nothing about it screams ‘exceptional whisky.’ It’s good but doesn’t wow me.
Value
Bob: This is where I’m going to reward this whisky. It’s $32.99 in the state of Ohio, and you just can’t beat that price for a single malt Scotch. For the value alone, I’m giving it a 9/10.
Brad: Agreed. For $33, this is an incredible value. If you want to start drinking Scotch and don’t want to go with a blended option, this is your starting point. I’m giving it a 9.5/10 on value.
Final Scores
- Bob’s Final Score: 38/50
- Brad’s Final Score: 41.5/50
- Overall Score: 39.75/50
Conclusion
Old Pulteney 12 Year is a solid whisky, especially considering the price. At just $33, it’s a fantastic entry point into the world of single malt Scotch. While it didn’t blow us away in terms of complexity or finish, it more than holds its own as an everyday Scotch that won’t break the bank.
If you’re new to Scotch or just looking for something affordable to add to your collection, this is definitely worth a try. At 39.75/50, it’s just shy of that 40 mark where we start really singing a whisky’s praises, but it’s still a great value for what you’re getting.
