"Technically perfect" | Aultmore 18 REVIEW

[@welshtoro3256]

I've been fond of this whisky since Bacardi relaunched Aultmore. It's definitely a step up from the 12 and it's still affordable, just, for what it is. It just tips over the £100 mark in the U.K. It's a very delicious whisky made with decent casks. However, when you consider Deanston 18, a similar style, can be bought for less than £70 a bottle and they make a decent profit from it, well, you ask yourself what are you paying for? However, you can see why Aultmore have been a favourite spirit for blenders. I have had some stunning independently bottled Aultmore over the years but they have all been 18 years old or above. That's going to be harder to find for a reasonable price nowadays but I recommend it as whisky. Aultmore works far better in ex-bourbon barrels and I see little point dumping it in a sherry barrel. Aultmore, Glen Elgin, Dailuaine, Strathmill, Benrinnes, Craigellachie are all first rate blending fodder and, traditionally, that's what they've been. They are all stunning in older ex-bourbon casks bottled by the independents and because they were such unfashionable brands, until recently, they were very well priced. Top notch review as always. Cheers. WT

[@Gwhisky]

I'm a big fan of many of those brands. I have a particular soft spot for Glen Elgin, Craigellachie, and Benrinnes. Wonderful single malts as OBs as well as loads of interesting IBs out there. Aultmore is not one I've tried as an IB. In fact I've only tried the 12 and the 18. I'm a fan. Cheers WT!

[@richardagnew4959]

Love Jim's channel! :). Don't worry about doing a series. Just do YOUR thing. :). Loved the Aultmore 12. Loads of pear for me. Would love to try the 18. Sounds fantastic. Twix bars are defo my jam too. $169.00 in AB. Happy Canada Day, bud!

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah Jim's channel is great. Aultmore 12 is good stuff, and I think if you enjoyed that one you'll like the 18. As I said, not a fireworks whisky but solid. $169 CAD is much more than what I paid, but then again that's true of every bottle price in Canada. Horrible prices there. Anyway, happy Canada Day! 😂

[@sunryse111]

On your say-so, Geoff, I bought the Aultmore 12. Don't think I've opened it yet. Maybe tonight I should revisit your review of it and open my bottle. Sounds like a plan. Slainte!

[@Gwhisky]

It's a low key whisky. I'd love to hear your thoughts on it, Victor! Cheers!

[@langtoun8235]

Positively on fire in this review G, enjoyed it immensely.

[@Gwhisky]

Hah thanks Lang! Cheers buddy!

[@christianborgenfalk7378]

Good review, as always. It would be interesting to hear your view on the general price increase of scotch whisky and the availability of older whiskeys.

[@Gwhisky]

Something to consider! They've gone up a lot recently. Not usually a rant channel, but I could be convinced...

[@TheReal_DeanD]

Thanks For the super helpful and honest review. Just got the last bottle in my local store for $100. Other stores have it for $140 but they’re going fast.

[@Gwhisky]

$100 is not bad! Not likely to last too long at that price. Cheers!

[@TheReal_DeanD]

@@Gwhisky Too true. I sent my friend your video and told them the store that had it for 100 USD. He goes there hours later and found it for 130. He then said to the store owner he thought it was 100. Man said no and pricing has been updated.

[@Gwhisky]

Hah damn. Sounds like the owner slipped up and you got lucky! 🥃

[@lewisduffy675]

Been really digging the Aultmore 12 lately, been dying to try this one! P.S. Liking the Ancnoc 12 as well really surprising at 40%. Cheers mate! Happy Canada Day!

[@Gwhisky]

Cheers Lewis! Happy Canada Day, buddy! 🇨🇦

[@The_Orb_Ponderer]

Love Aultmore. Got the standard 12 edition a few years ago, then noticed that there was some bottles on The Scotch Malt Whisky Society and grabbed a couple.

[@Gwhisky]

The 12 is good stuff!

[@reneharrison9349]

Best gateway whisky I know. Smooth and luscious. I would buy again. Prefer it to Deanston 18. $185nz does give one pause though. Great review again. Slaint

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks Rene. It's a good one. Cheers! 🥃

[@stevengallery5561]

Currently on my 'still to buy' list after trying it last year at a friend's wedding and really enjoyed it. (The whisky not the wedding) 😁 I have however just sourced an 11yr old Aultmore 64.1%, finished in a Belize Rum cask from Cadenheads, which should be most interesting. 🤔

[@Gwhisky]

I've never had an Aultmore IB, but I hear good things. Sounds fantastic. Enjoy Steven!

[@DonnerPassWhisky]

Am a big fan of the 12 and have been wanting to try this for a long time. However there are so many great whisky's in that price range especially with independent bottles that I have access too just haven't gotten one yet. Cheers

[@Gwhisky]

Fair enough! You might find many of those bottles to be more interesting and characterful than this one. I do like it, but it is a bit "safe." Cheers!

[@Rohit_M]

Technically perfect review Geoff. Yet to try any Aultmore offerings but it sounds like prices in some markets for a 18 year old low key whisky may make it tough to get into it.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah it may be a bit too low key for some. Even I wish it had more fireworks. It's really good, though, as long as the price is reasonable.

[@franklampard6316]

Geoff. - if you like the 18 you need to try the 21. It’s amazing. Similar taste profile to the 18 with maybe a bit longer finish that hangs on with lovely chocolate, toffee notes that balance the spice.

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks Frank. It's a bit pricey for me, but I'm definitely interested in trying it!

[@welshtoro3256]

I've always wanted to try the 21 but the spike in price from the 18 is gobsmacking. I can't quite recall but I think the 21 has a dollop of sherry in the mix. As I said in my comment, old independent Aultmore is cracking value (or used to be).

[@franklampard6316]

@@welshtoro3256 - that’s why I’m in a whisky club. I get to try these high end bottles without personally buying them 😀

[@toddallen9368]

I'm sorry if this went through earlier it looked like it didn't. Been watching your channel since HP Full Volume. Went out and bought a bottle and then hunted Dark Origin for a year based on your recommendation. I'd love to know your thoughts on speyburn 15 and 18.

[@Gwhisky]

Hi Todd. I hope you enjoyed both those HPs. Big fan of them. I've been looking for the Speyburn 15. I've heard Roy (Aqvavitae) talk it up enough to pique my interest. I plan to find it and certainly review it eventually. Cheers! 🥃

[@WhiskeyStraightAl]

Nice! I've only had the 12 (sample) and enjoyed it. I really do wonder why I haven't bought a bottle yet. Cheers Geoff.

[@Gwhisky]

It won't blow your socks off, but definitely decent stuff. I think you'd enjoy it! Cheers my friend!

[@welshtoro3256]

Possibly because of the price Al. It's steep. However, irritatingly, it's not so steep (yet) that I still reach out for it on occasion. It's good stuff though. Classic, old school, Speyside. I like to say that because Spey has become known as 'safe' or, dear I say it, boring. Spey whisky (and any other region for that matter) in quality ex-bourbon casks does no wrong for me.

[@SaltyCuban]

Sounds interesting. I’d give it a go. There’s times you want something classy and somewhat simple. Good one Geoff. I’ll stay away from those Taiwan weekends though😏

[@Gwhisky]

😂

[@davidowen2834]

Hi Geoff, always enjoy your reviews and this was no exception 👍. Never had an Aultmore but it does sound like what I like.Shame that older whiskies (18+) are getting too pricey, still, I’ve got a few in my stash so I don’t really have to buy anymore. Slainte Geoff.

[@Gwhisky]

You were smart to stock up while they were still "reasonably priced." I wish I had your foresight. Cheers David. Always nice to hear from you.

[@SaltyCuban]

@@Gwhisky I have 15x 15 yr olds, 15x 18 yr olds & 3x21 yr olds unopened. Plus @40x 12 yr olds plus a dozen or so 10 yr olds stashed. Also plenty of Rum and some scotch blends. I’m ready for the long winter. 😝 That being said it feels like it’s not nearly enough. I think this “hobby” is a ($) problem.

[@Gwhisky]

@@SaltyCuban Damn Salty! You gearing up for the apocalypse? Heh. Actually I'm sure you won't regret having those around in the future, whether for sipping or selling.

[@WhiskyLock]

"Technically perfect" and "Nice" eh? What a way to really stick the knife in ;-) Seriously though I know what you mean. I haven't had this 18yo but I thought the 12yo was very decent and I look forward to revisiting Aultmore. Interested to know; how old do you think you would guess this 18yo to be if you tasted it blind? Does it have those typical well aged notes? Thanks for the great review.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah I do actually wish this had more fireworks. It's delicious, but somewhat tame at the same time. If you like the 12 and what it does, you'll probably appreciate the subtleties in this. I haven't tried it blind, and I've never approached it with the "does it taste 18?" question in mind. I'd probably give it 16-18 years if I went in blind...

[@dairyyang5457]

Right, it's a very balanced whisky with no-wow effect. The herb and champagne notes probably are the most protruding character in both 12 / 18yo, and they are all decent.

[@Gwhisky]

Great minds think alike! Now... when are you coming to Taipei again buddy??? I've still got those lovely Kavalans with your name on them.😉

[@dairyyang5457]

Maybe next month...Sooo hate not being able to be there for such long time!😵‍💫

[@catnapgee5357]

I hope you can get your hands on the 18 year old glen garioch chapter 4 for a decent price. I think that one might impress you (if you like lots of oak)

[@Gwhisky]

Well to be honest I don't usually like lots of oak, but I'd be willing to try it. I've never seen it here, though.

[@MarceloKurtz]

Just found a bottle for $125, it’s probably been sitting on that shelf for a while by the dust on top of it

[@Gwhisky]

Nice find! 🥃

[@allanwhittle3041]

Hi G As you’ll probably know Ralfy gave this a recommend not so long ago So I bought a bottle ( with difficulty ) IMO It is pretty good whisky , IF ..you can find it in the UK and if you do , chances are whoever is selling it ,is wanting way way too much for it . It’s not spectacular , it’s subtle and very easy to drink , but not worth priced being asked . Won’t go out of my way to aquire a second bottle at the price 👍

[@Gwhisky]

Hi Allan. I'd agree that it's overpriced in many markets. I got it for a good price here, so I might have gone a bit soft on it. I really do like it, but I'll admit I do wish it had more pop. That being said, the quality is there and it makes for an excellent casual sipper. But if you're overpaying for it, then there are certainly better options out there. Cheers!

[@silverfox108]

Very hard to currently find in Canada and the price is pushing 200 dollars plus.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah that's a bit much...

[@Nikolay_Nikolov]

I have had a bottle of the 12 yo and thoroughly enjoyed it. The 18 yo has been on my radar for years now but its price here is quite salty. Roughly 105 euros at minimum. Still there is good probability for me to buy a bottle. Cheers!

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah that's a bit high. I was lucky enough to pay the equivalent of €83 for my bottle. It might be worth it, just note that it's a casual low-key whisky, not a showstopper. I'd be interested to hear your thoughts if you do pull the trigger. Cheers!

[@Nikolay_Nikolov]

@@Gwhisky 83 euros is very, very nice price. I have never seen Aultmore 18 on sale for this money in Bulgaria. Not in the last three years at least. I enjoyed the 12 yo because it is a low key, spirit driven, Speyside sipper. Fresh, clean, crisp and grassy/herbal. If the 18 yo is something like that plus extra maturity, I'm all in😀

[@welshtoro3256]

It is a bit salty, I agree, but it is lovely stuff and I would recommend buying a bottle before it gets completely out of reach. I've been drinking single malt since 1988 but only got big time about ten years ago. I made a point of buying stuff that I knew was going to become too expensive in the future like Macallan 18 or Yamazaki 18 (£75 ten tears ago). You wont be disappointed with it as a whisky - it's very good. The price is only going to go up.

[@BanjoSick]

Hmmm, something to share with the Mrs, I guess!

[@Gwhisky]

Definitely!

[@scnullois]

Geoff did you throw in the Canada Dry because today is Canada Day?

[@Gwhisky]

Hah! You give me too much credit!

[@DileepB]

Looks like the 18 year old is priced at 2x the 12 year old. Good value!

[@Gwhisky]

That's not bad!

[@catnapgee5357]

0:40 Oh no, you're not wrong my good man, 18 year olds are the best! ;) hehehe

[@toddallen9368]

Speyburn 15 and 18 Non chill filtered No color Gotta make this happen. Love your channel. Been watching since HP Full Volume, which ended with me buying a bottle and hunting Dark Origins for a year. Keep it up!

[@catnapgee5357]

@@toddallen9368 Thanks I do my best! I might have no vids on my channel, but I try to transcend good vibes onto it to keep people watching it nonetheless :-)

[@chefmarv6499]

A proper 18 yo whisky. It's not really supposed to have "pop". I warn my friends when they think of going up the age ladder: you got to take it slow, because it won't jump at you like a Talisker 10 and you might even find it "boring" at first.

[@Gwhisky]

Perhaps, but there are plenty of 18 year old whiskies that "pop" more than this one. You mentioned Talisker... their 18 is a great example. I certainly take your point, though. Whiskies like this often fly under the radar, but there's a time and a place for them. Low-key isn't always a bad thing. Cheers Chef!

[@EuropaWill]

Low key and expensive is a tough sell for me though. I think if a score doesn't scale proportionally with the price of the bottle it's not a great value. If I'm paying $100+ for a bottle I expect to be blown away.

[@silverfox108]

Well according to Mater of Malt the 18 yr old Aultmore is discontinued

[@Gwhisky]

Just checked. Damn, you're right! I'd heard nothing about that.

[@MrChristopherMolloy]

Yes, there was a mad scramble for this bottle a few weeks ago after Ralfy gave it a 90, which is a fine score (but not all that uncommon for him generally speaking), but some of his subs were jubilant over the fact that they found it and had the privilege of paying in excess of $150 for it. Now I haven't tried it, and I'd like to, but I'm not paying $150+ for a what looks to be a good, but rather standard bottling. Nope. As for being "technically perfect", that reminds me of some generically beautiful catalog model or what comes out the other side of an Instagram filter.

[@Gwhisky]

That's why "technically perfect" is usually a negative term. It isn't here. It's technically perfect, but this model didn't need the filters. That being said, it's no showstopper. I think it's fantastic, but I do find myself wishing it had more pop sometimes. Cheers buddy.

[@MrChristopherMolloy]

@@Gwhisky Curious if Glen Moray is part of your 18yo lineup?

[@Gwhisky]

@@MrChristopherMolloy No, that one rarely pops up in my local shops. I might be able to track a bottle down, though. Worth it?

[@MrChristopherMolloy]

@@Gwhisky I have an unopened bottle I paid $90 for because I've only heard positive stuff. I've never actually had a HQ Glen Moray, but I really like their entry level Elgin Classic range, so I'm looking forward to getting around to it soon.

[@MrChristopherMolloy]

@@Gwhisky A blind review... kzbin.info/www/bejne/anXLnYaXaLuqfK8

[@aframs-cctaf-rams-cct6424]

Puck ya, new vid! USA!

[@Gwhisky]

🤘

[@ironmantran]

review 10/10 - - - - - price 5/10 - - - - - klavier music on "class" = pirceless ! ! LOL. (( btw, "nice" - like smooth - is now banned from whisky vocab. ))

[@Gwhisky]

Niiiiice. 😉

[@BanjoSick]

I thought it was harpsichord...

[@silverfox108]

Well as you are aware being a Canadian we are so very overly taxes way beyond reason

[@Gwhisky]

Totally. I don't think I've ever bought a bottle of scotch when I've gone back home. I always load up on the good Canadian stuff.

[@mahmoudali1848]

Alberta is the place to be for cheaper whiskies. Although we have the lowest liquor tax (or mark-up if you will) some of the local agents soak up the tax benefir by raising the wholesale price - in other words they often do not pass it on to the consumer. However, the silver lining in all this is that agents and private liquor stores are free to put things on clearance and that is where things can get interesting. I have been able to get the Aultmore 12 and Craigelachie 13 for about C$50, and just last week the AnCnoc for C$42. There are plenty more examples. On the topic of Aultmore, I just bought a Douglas Laing 'Provenance' Aultmore 6 year-old (46%) for C$65 which, according to wine-searcher, is not much over world lowest price. I quite liked the Aultmore 12. At a whisky tasting it was sandwiched between a distillery edition Edradour 10 (very popular) and a Bowmore 'Black Rock' (travel retail). Of course all the peatheads voted the Bowmore as their favourite but to me it was dull and clumsy. The Aultmore was refreshingly different and struck me as an exemplar of the type of malt it wanted to be. In a room of just over 20 people the Aultmore got one 2nd pick and two 3rd pick.

[@mahmoudali1848]

I should add that all the love went to the Edradour and Bowmore, with the Aultmore coming in last place among the six whiskies. Clearly it is a malt that marches to a different best. I'm hoping that the 6 year-old from a refill hogshead will be interesting.

[@maritimeus]

There’s no better way to say it. Keep touchin on those 18 year olds…

[@Gwhisky]

He's over here, officer. ⬆️ 😂😂😂

[@maritimeus]

lol

[@deeshmond]

For some reason, this one did nothing for me. Didn’t like it at all. That said, I only had one glass of it

[@Gwhisky]

It's solid, but it's not likely to sweep anyone off their feet. Gets better if you spend time with it, imo.