Cardhu 12 Years Old Single Speyside Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 40%

Helen Cumming raised a red flag over the farm whenever the exciseman came near. Two hundred years later Cardhu still stands in the same spot at Knockando, making the softest malt in Speyside.

Expert description

Cardhu 12 years is a Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky matured in oak casks and bottled at 40%.

The distillery was founded in 1824 by John and Helen Cumming, and in 1893 John Walker & Sons bought it. Cardhu has been the heart of Johnnie Walker ever since, and the house style — light, honeyed and almost smokeless — is exactly what the blenders build on. The 12 year old is the flagship and has for decades been the bottle you hand a beginner without the enthusiast raising an eyebrow.

Tasting notes

Nose

Honey, pear and pale meadow flowers. Behind them sits a dry malted cereal note and a hint of vanilla from the wood.

Palate

Soft and light, with poached pear, honey, cereal and a touch of cinnamon. There are no edges here — this is a whisky that slips down rather than demanding attention.

Finish

Short to medium, dry and malty, with a faint spiced warmth at the end.

Specifications

Name: Cardhu 12 years Single Speyside Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 40%
Distillery: Cardhu
Region/Country: Speyside Scotland
Type: Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Age: 12 years
ABV: 40 %
Size: 70 CL
Cask type: Oak casks
EAN no.: 5000267102573

Flavour profile

Soft · Fruity · Honeyed · Malty · Unpeated

Did you know?

Cardhu was the first Scottish distillery run by a woman. Elizabeth Cumming took over in 1872 and rebuilt the place completely — and she sold the old timber walls on to William Grant, who used them to raise Glenfiddich.

See our full range of Cardhu Whisky

Frequently asked questions about Cardhu 12 years

Is Cardhu 12 years peated?

No. Cardhu is one of the mildest malts in Speyside and uses no peated malt. You get honey, pear and light cereal instead of smoke, which makes it a safe choice if the smoky style is not for you.

Is it good for someone new to whisky?

Yes, it is almost built for it. The strength sits at 40%, the sweetness is soft and there are no sharp edges. At the same time the malty core is clear enough to teach you something about the Speyside style.

How is it best served?

Neat in a tulip glass at room temperature. The whisky is light enough that ice and water dilute it quickly. If you want it cold, use one large cube rather than several small ones.

What is the link between Cardhu and Johnnie Walker?

Cardhu was bought by John Walker & Sons in 1893 and has been one of the core malts in Johnnie Walker blends ever since. Taste Cardhu 12 years and you taste a large part of the character in the Walker bottles.

Does it make a good gift?

It has broad appeal. Easy to like, well known enough to be recognised, and mild enough that it will not sit untouched. For something rarer for a seasoned collector, look through our range of Speyside Whisky.

What food goes with it?

Try it with a piece of mature cheddar or a dessert built on pear and caramel. The sweetness meets the fruit without drowning it, and the modest strength lets the food keep its own voice.