Deanston 12 year old Single Highland Malt Whisky 46,3%

No caramel colouring, no filtration, no rush. Deanston took the harder road and raised the strength at the same time — which is why the 12 year old tastes clearer than most in its class.

Expert description

Deanston 12 years is a Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky matured in ex-bourbon casks and bottled at 46.3% without chill filtration and without added colouring.

The distillery sits in a converted cotton mill from 1785 by the village of Doune, where the River Teith supplies both water for production and power for the whole site. The malt is Scottish, the fermentation long, and everything runs through classic pot stills. The 12 year old is the core expression and the clearest picture of what Deanston is after: a soft, honeyed style with enough body to be felt.

Tasting notes

Nose

Honey from wildflowers, fresh apple and malt, with vanilla and a light cereal freshness.

Palate

Soft and full. Honey, ginger and malted barley, with pale fruit and a creamy mouthfeel. The 46.3% gives weight without turning hard.

Finish

Medium and dry, with malt, ginger and a soft honeyed warmth.

Specifications

Name: Deanston 12 years Single Highland Malt Whisky 70 cl 46,3%
Distillery: Deanston
Region/Country: Highlands Scotland
Type: Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Age: 12 years
ABV: 46.3%
Size: 70 CL
Cask type: Ex-bourbon casks
Non-chill filtered: Yes
Natural colour: Yes
EAN no.: 5029704217175

Flavour profile

Soft · Honeyed · Malty · Fruity · Creamy

Did you know?

The cotton mill at Doune was designed by Richard Arkwright, the man behind the industrial spinning frame. When textile production closed in 1965, the building stood empty for less than a year before the first whisky ran off the stills.

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Frequently asked questions about Deanston 12 years

Why is it not chill filtered?

Because filtration removes oils that give body in the mouth. Deanston skips the step, which is why the whisky may go slightly hazy when cold. That is not a fault but a sign the oils are still in it.

Is it peated?

No. Deanston uses no peated malt. The profile is honey, malt and pale fruit. For smoke, head towards Islay Whisky.

Is it good for a beginner?

Yes. It is soft and easy to like, but the 46.3% and the absence of filtration give more to taste than many other starter whiskies. You do not grow out of it quickly.

What does natural colour mean?

That no caramel colouring has been added. The colour comes purely from the ex-bourbon casks, which is why the whisky is paler than many competitors at the same level.

What food goes with it?

Try it with a mild cheese, apple tart or a honey-based dessert. The soft sweetness and light spice cope well without drowning the food.

How is it best enjoyed?

Neat in a tulip glass. At 46.3% it takes a couple of drops of water, which open the apple and honey. Avoid ice, which shuts down the creamy texture.