Whiskey Vault Ep 131: Aberfeldy 12 Year Old Scotch Whisky Review and Tasting

Today we do a review and tasting of Aberfeldy 12 Year Old Scotch Whisky from the Aberfeldy Distillery.

[@napalmstix]

Here's how I learned that "older" doesn't mean "better": A few years ago I picked up a mispriced bottle of Aberfeldy 21 that was priced like the 12. I figured spending $40 on a $150 bottle of whisky couldn't be a bad idea. Sadly, it was a little too floral for me, but it was just close enough to good to get me to try the 12 year, which I really enjoyed. Anyway, suggestions for the sign-off: Daniel: "May your crazy stay this side of legal" Rex: "May your lazy stay this side of buying your own shit"

[@WhiskeyVault]

I agree on the Aberfeldy. the 12 is so much better IMO. Love the sign off :-)

[@jimbintz2424]

My new favorite whiskey. I just got a pour, and Dan is right about that banana note on the bottle nose. I'm pleased to find that it's blended into Dewars. I preferred that years ago.

[@sprad31jt]

First off, I love the show. I just turned 21 in May and have found that I really enjoy Whisky/Whiskey. So far I've only had a couple of Bourbons (Evan Williams and Maker's Mark) and a Japanese Whisky (a White Oak Akashi Blended Whisky I believe). Since I am in the phase of trying things and finding out what Whisky I love, I want to try some Scotch. So my question is: Is there a Scotch that would be a good starting point? I really don't know where to start. I'm not sure if this will factor into deciding what to try but I drink whiskey neat. Thank you guys for doing this show! I am only at the beginning of my journey to becoming a Whisky enthusiast and this show has helped to spark an interest and to become more informed on said interest. Once again, thanks! -JT

[@NickGibbsmusic]

officialJTSprad I was like you a year ago and have been on the coolest journey since then. I got a book called 101 whiskies to try before you die and it really helped me understand what it’s all about. I bought a few bottles that sounded interesting and went from there. edit: you wrote this 2 years ago I’ve just seen so what I’m writing is probably useless...but I can still give you a list of my faves! Lagavulin 16 Kilkerran 12 Kilchoman Machir Bay Ardbeg Uigeadail Caol Ila 12 Bruichladdich Classic Laddie Nikka from the Barrel Laphroaig Quarter Cask

[@TheBioethicist]

Daniel, you could just get a bottle of Dewar's, and then add one whiskey to it. Bam. Work smarter, not harder.

[@WhiskeyVault]

Perfect business model!

[@the-chillian]

The "Price is Right" method of whiskey blending, as it were.

[@swedishwhiskygirl]

Aberfeldy 16 is one of my all time favourite whiskies 🥰🙌🏼

[@Doinx05]

i own a bottle of the aberfeldy 12... it didnt last a week. fucking friends keep drinkin my whisky... i need to lose some friends...

[@WhiskeyVault]

With friends like these....

[@OFFTHEGRIND]

Aberfeldy and finch.... god damnit Rex

[@farklestaxbaum4945]

Aberfeldy 12 tastes like a super sweet corn bourbon to me. Its not bad, but doesnt taste like scotch. Highland park is one of my favorite scotches, they taste nothing alike

[@dresh9122]

This was the bottle that the kids picked me up for fathers day! Love the peppery/spicyness at the back end. It'd be great on a cold autumn or winters day - but I'm not sure it'll last that long.

[@WhiskeyVault]

No need. They have stores that can solve the whisky shortage problem.

[@dresh9122]

I am tempted to add it to my winter playlist.

[@ericellis2729]

I too enjoy the peppery note on the finish - it reminds me of the pepper notes of some blanco tequilas I've sipped on. Cheers!

[@chuck430]

just tried it last night and wanted to go back and see what you guys said about it, I didn't get the smoke either but I got what I thought was raisin or some sort of jam. I'll go back tonight and see if it was peach. Rex, "Finch" was that a dad joke?

[@gregkranz5328]

Great video! Drinking Spice Tree per your recommendation. I now must try everything Compass Box makes! So good. PS: my wallet is not enjoying this channel.

[@micky1497]

I thinks it´s very funny to see grown man taste whiskey but get their cursing bleeped. Anyways good work and may the fun never go away ;)

[@WhiskeyVault]

We have no choice. Our mom's watch this show.

[@LeClaw]

I've been to this distillery. Aberfeldy is a beautiful town

[@khaldounsamman9128]

How can you not have Dewars white label in your collection? It is the people's dram! I love Alberfedly.. BTW, I have over 200 bottles of whiskies that are more respected by the community, but I always come back to Dewars and Aberfeldy. Both are bottles I come back to regularly.

[@paulmclaren9649]

I get unsalted bar nuts (peanuts) on the taste I absolutely love this single malt and I've noticed if I eat salty foods like fish n chips the whiskey gets more spicy on the tongue

[@charlieghague]

I think I did write a book with that comment! I must've had a few before writing that bc I didn't realize it was that long. She was having trouble tasting anything at all really but has gotten a lot better. I switched her to more advanced scotches since the friendlier whiskies weren't doing much for her and she seems to enjoy them more oddly enough. She's able to get more flavors from them as well. On a side note, I know I've read about a blend that uses over 100 whiskeys somewhere. Can't remember what it was though.

[@WhiskeyVault]

Moshe Brodt just mentioned that! It's the Chivas Century Blend.

[@charlieghague]

Wizard Academy Ah yes. That would be the one.

[@dan5087]

I bought both Highland 12 and this around the same time, and I have to say I prefer Aberfeldy. There's a lot of depth to it. I love the subtle sweet fruit notes in it. A good comparison is Aberfeldy 12 and Aberlour 12. Great video guys!

[@mobro444]

Hey guys. You'll need 101 whiskies to beat the record as Chivas has done 100 in its Century of Malts. Good Luck! ;)

[@WhiskeyVault]

Challenge accepted!

[@UnboundOdysseus]

Once you've been married 15 years (as I have), and you have three kids (as I do), looking like an idiot is a foregone conclusion. Embrace it. I was also a lead singer/guitar player before I became a "respectable" member of society. In music, like in whisky tasting, being confident allows you to fool people into thinking you're competent (even when you're not). I've been putting off buying Aberfeldy, since I've heard a lot of mixed reviews. Thanks for this, guys. Slainte mhaith !

[@WhiskeyVault]

Yes. You are my people.

[@chuck430]

Like Charlie's girlfriend, I'm also curious ..... to know how one gets past the wood and alcohol and starts to get flavors of walnut, cherry, etc. Sure, it's all opinion, but you have to have tasted something in the whiskey to give you that opinion.

[@WhiskeyVault]

It simply takes time and drinking. The best homework of all. It helps if you have a tasting sheet to help give your brain some words and flavors to choose from. I like this one: whiskeysmiths.com/whisky-deductive-tasting/

[@bobbyjoedill]

This is my favorite scotch I've found in a long time..

[@shanemendiola5615]

Not big on Canadian whiskey, but I needed a bottle in my collection. I picked up Caribou crossing, any thoughts? I thought it was ok, but you're pallet is far more advanced than mine Sir Daniel.

[@WhiskeyVault]

Haven't tried it yet. I'll add it!

[@AdamPFarnsworth]

This weekend I tried an aged vodka. Basically whiskey, but interesting branding. I don't really have anything interesting to comment today, but I wanted to type something.

[@tdolan500]

Adam Farnsworth was that a grain or potato vodka?

[@AdamPFarnsworth]

That's a great question. And one I wished I asked lol.

[@vitotaylor36]

How tall is Rex? I know Daniel is like 2'

[@Ali-7676]

Plot twist, Daniel is not small, its just that Rex is huge. I think Daniel is 6"2" and Rex is like 6'10"

[@Evan050561]

Just bought 4 of these here in LA at Costco for 26.99 each!! Wait…bought one for 32.00 then went back and got 4 more. If you buy 2 they’re 26.99😜

[@jessesteele1177]

Being just recently turned 21 (as of this June), I've watched a good bit of your videos so far, I've recently just tried whiskey after having never had alcohol before. I recently tried Stranahan's Colorodo Whiskey and Slow and Low's Rock and rye. I was curious as to what y'alls opinions were of these 2 specific types of whiskey were. Or if I had to pick one, I would prefer what you thought of the Stranahan's over the Slow and Low. Thank you for any responses at all :)

[@WhiskeyVault]

I much prefer Stranahan's but that's only because that's the direction of whisky I prefer. I've heard slow and low is a killer rye as well. It's all good!

[@jessesteele1177]

Wizard Academy that's awesome to hear! I've definitely got a long way ahead of me of still trying to figure out what I like and I appreciate your input! Thank you for responding in a quick manner!

[@buckmurdock2025]

Smoking causes lung- and throat cancer. Who in their right mind would go sucking dangerous poisons and carcinogens over their most sensitive tissues? Drinking distilled alcohol causes throat cancer. Who in their right mind would drink concentrated poison? Drinking cigars and smoking distilled alcohol is a disaster waiting to happen. Who in their right mind would try so hard to kill any regenerative power one has, numb their mind so life and opportunities can just float past unused, be a nuacance for their peers and just try to commit suicide? Well, as long as the smoke contains thc and the alcohol comes from a good whiskey, I can honestly say that, accompanied by some very good music and company, I would.

[@patrickbaker4514]

Insightful episode. I am drinking the scotch in the title, and it's good. But ya boys went off the chain, and I appreciate the commentary

[@PwnageEngage]

Daniel, what is the coolest whisky-drinking memory you have? Rex, what is your favorite (but obviously less-cool) whisky drinking memory? Alternatively, what is your favorite whiskey mooching memory?

[@WhiskeyVault]

I like this. I'll add it to our list.

[@Joss1245]

I picked up a bottle of the 16 year old recently, great stuff!

[@adamkrepp1682]

You should review Lagavulin Distillers Edition...because Rex cares and deserves it.

[@WhiskeyVault]

Rex cares alright. About DRINKING ALL MY WHISKY. I'll do it anyway though.

[@Khaymen223]

Had a 3/4 full Ab 12, and about 2 inches left of my Lagavullin 16....Added the Laga 16 to the Ab 12. Wonderful

[@justanotherparatrooper7098]

When phone ringing Dad says ‘If it’s for me don’t answer it.

[@jpb-go8qh]

You guys are great, but Terrible Review. You spent the entire video talking about everything but the Aberfeldy!

[@BrandonLangSozo]

Fridays suck! I spend the weekend counting down the hours until Monday morning when you guys post another video. TGIM!!

[@CatfishCook]

I was pissed that the video came on so late today. slakers!

[@WhiskeyVault]

That one was my fault. Bad Daniel

[@bubba3529]

Can you guy tell how the makers get the different flavor notes in whiskey. So if you are stilling, how to do it. Please.

[@WhiskeyVault]

I'll chat about this in a video!

[@shilohstore6086]

Was that a dad joke out of Rex...whooo

[@thebarnzz]

missing the Aberfeldy details from this one, but get the banana/vanilla, cheers!

[@tdolan500]

I think this channel is maybe my second favourite after the hoonigans, questions! Is there a video that explains what the tower is for and maybe a tour of the facilities? (I swear until two days ago I thought it was Daniel's house) Second thing, are you guys or the academy on any sort of social media?

[@WhiskeyVault]

We'll see about answering this one in a video at some point.

[@tdolan500]

Wizard Academy Excellent, look forward to it.

[@nerfmadeeasy]

So I had an opportunity to buy Dalmore 12 (108$ +/-) today but I decided not to because I could buy a bottle of Aberfeldy 12 and Laphroaig Quarter Cask for about 20$ less... Am I crazy for not buying the Dalmore 12? I figured I could save money and have two great single malt scotches. I know the Dalmore 12 was reviewed and was one of the best scotches ever. What are your thoughts?

[@WhiskeyVault]

You are not crazy. Wait until you can find it cheaper.

[@markcourtney2205]

Yummy stuff.I think I need a new bottle it's going quickly.

[@Tracks777]

Fantastic video! Keep it up!

[@Fishpig65]

Got me a jug of Sheep Dip and a Woodford reserve. Loved em both. Found many test dummies at a Grad Party. Some folks just don't like Whiskey. Oh well more for me.

[@redletterl78]

Dewars white label is shite. Dewars 12yo is a big improvement.

[@jasontran6826]

Hi Daniel and Rex, do you guys have any Australian whiskey in your vault? sullivans cove is something I was given recently, and being a beginner whiskey it is something that I would probably shelve and drink when I get a more refined palate.

[@WhiskeyVault]

I've heard of that one but we don't have it. We have three others, though. Starward, Mt Uncle, and Lark

[@hotskillet]

Had to post a comment so Rex can re-watch how drunk he was on this video.

[@321Sardine]

Hey guys, not sure if you have already done it yet but would be good to see a review on glendalough 13. I was on the wicklow way with the good lady and stopped in glendalough as we passed for a dram. Was nice whiskey, only problem was we got lost on the trail the next day and had to hitch hike to the next town....

[@WhiskeyVault]

Nice obscure reference! Ireland's "first craft distillery". They don't have enough distribution for me to have one yet, but maybe someday! Let's assume the lost trail hike had nothing to do with the whiskey. Obviously just bad signage.

[@robertpoche1585]

At 80 proof it is just too watered down for me. Poor value for what it costs.

[@schrutefarms5477]

I went out and got Dalmore 12, it was soooo good. "Daniel's voice"

[@CatfishCook]

I just picked it up this Saturday and haven't tried it yet. trying to hide my whisky from the wifey! thanks Daniel and Rex! hash tag divorce because of u guys! hash tag scotch scotch scotch, I love scotch and all whiskeys!

[@WhiskeyVault]

hahahahaha

[@imangus247]

I believe I have a new tag line for Rex. "May they never square and fester at the edges". You're welcome.

[@imangus247]

That, sir, is the plan. And sláinte!

[@tdolan500]

Tracey Ayer Sláinte Mo Chara!

[@Goals3300]

too much bs. pls just review the whiskey.

[@JimmyLeg]

You're watching the wrong channel if you want whisky reviews.

[@willhenryshortterms]

Try to crack THAT one. It's something I've been thinking about a lot. Let me know.

[@CycleRayinOK]

I just bought a 750ml of the Aberfeldy 12 Highland about a week ago at Costco in Southern Missouri for $38. I don't have any opinion or tasting notes yet. I always check Whiskey Vault videos for recommendations and notes before I buy something I've never had before.

[@TheMahagoni]

OMGGGGGGG I feel like a jamaican prince that a week after my request you rockstars went ahead and took me up on it (whether i'm being naco and you were gonna do it anyway or not its fun) :D Thanks guys PS. I just now entered this and haven't seen it, if you're going to mention my username I'm gonna burst into flames

[@WhiskeyVault]

You're going to get mentioned whether you like it or not.

[@TheMahagoni]

i AM????? Wow well damn, thanks dude that really feels awesome that you say that without sounding too needy or lame

[@Douwant2play]

Just rewatched this episode and realized Rex made a dad joke!

[@BrodyYYC]

This is one of my favourite scotches. I get strong green apple on the nose and dark chocolate on the pallet.

[@topreview3791]

Not a fan of this. Has a bad aftertaste

[@ayidn.h]

Love you guys!!! Best Review EVER!!!!

[@MrAndyStenz]

I’ve tried many times to like this bottle and I just can’t. And so I came to see if you two had a video on it and boom, you do. And I think it’s the one video I’ve watched of yours where you speak so very little on the actual bottle you’re tasting 😂 I’m glad many others in the comments appreciate it. I just am not finding a way to so far 😕

[@Imachowderhead]

I like Old Panther Whiskey, bottled yesterday in Rotgut Kentucky.

[@BadWeatherfreak]

Aberfeldy 12 , I found it for 36 dollars. Tempted to buy it had to look it up on youtube

[@joethompson3519]

9:42 seconds . I laughed so hard I sprayed MacGavin Islay all,over my iPad. At least it was my budget whisky.

[@jrcu19]

I would love it if they review one of Garrison Brothers bourbon.

[@WhiskeyVault]

We'll add it to the list! Dig what those guys are doing.

[@robfut9954]

You can always “teaspoon” in whiskies for a blend. Miniatures and narrowed bottles. Or a blend of blends would get fast gains.

[@traycec6827]

Aberfeldy and finch... Rex with the dad joke! Daniel should be able to now select one of Rex's kids to sacrifice to the whiskey gods. Or... just a really good whiskey to drink in front of the mooch without him being able to partake.

[@hardikdoshi7131]

Brilliant stuff!

[@midshipsport]

Just bought one. Costs INR. 6700 / USD.88 in India

[@FoMobileGaming]

"Janet Jackson"? Try again, Sir. lol

[@HappyHighwayman]

How long does whiskey last in the bottle once open?

[@WhiskeyVault]

It has a lot to do with how frequently you open it. Every time you open it, you introduce new air and shorten the lifespan. So if you open it frequently, you've got maybe six months. If you open it once a year it could last for decades, if the cork stays solid.

[@kevinhester5560]

"The Bodyguard" was Whitney Houston, not Janet Jackson! Like saying ,"That Old Crow whisky blended by Richard Paterson"!! Not in the same ballpark. I'll continue catching up on episodes............

[@WhiskeyVault]

hahahahahahaha. true.

[@gustavjansson6499]

I have been trying the 12 now although its been a while but is it worth to try the 16? I know it cost a bit more

[@500rattie]

I get a really bright Pineapple on the nose of the Aberfeldy 12. Very friendly and easy to drink. Slight pepper on the finish.

[@interruptor]

Why do I get the impression this review was shot at the end of a long day of reviews?...

[@andrewwebb6270]

New sign-off: D - "May your crazy stay this side of legal" R - "May mooching never let your wallet run dry" Whoa! I also should probably congratulate you guys on reaching 4.4K!! It's been great watching Rex bring in all these fellow mooches! And... I guess Daniel helped too... ( But really you guys are both great. Congrats)

[@WhiskeyVault]

Love these! And yes. 4.4k I can finally buy that extra Ferrari!

[@jimbintz2424]

I just bought this at a great price, with Elijah Craig and Ethan Williams. I opened the bourbon first, noted a sharpness on the bottle sniff. Then I opened the Aberfeldy and the AROMA nearly drove me to pour it right then! (Couldn't, need to ration this beauty.)

[@pympin87]

1 ml of ever whiskey in the vault ... you could call it the vault tour blend

[@CoIdestMoments]

those guys life is doing reviews high and drunk af? jesus sign me up

[@rockdocpalmcoast4189]

I was drinking Highland Park 12 while I was watching this. Serendipitous. I know big words. OK, one big word. Highland Park.... good....more.

[@WhiskeyVault]

Mmmmmm. Yes. Highland Park.

[@jimbintz2424]

I added water, which brought out the florals, then finished it with my one cube of ice. The empty Glengaren retained a strong aroma of tobacco!

[@andreabousios9024]

You should review some products by Samaroli!

[@johnwallace2319]

Did he confuse whitney huston with jannet jackson?

[@jcat187]

Trying it now. All I taste is banana now. Thanks

[@willhenryshortterms]

0:58 mark

[@SupermanBB]

WRONGGK!!

[@darrenhuntington7319]

Kinda like: is a tasting note in all single malts

[@jimbintz2424]

I have two glasses to do taste duels between the three spirits.

[@Soldier957]

So what didd the Aberfeldy taste like?

[@Cougar139tweak]

@ 6:30 what makes this episode epic...

[@triplecap4307]

Guys I really disagree. This is heavily colored, chill filtered 40% dreck. I was sure you were going to hate it too. (To be honest, and actions often speak louder than words, you did move on to Smokin' almost immediately.) The Dalmore 12 I'd say almost the same, but at least it is more drinkable. I also bought the Aberfeldy 18 earlier this year (duty free through MIA), and it really wasn't much better. Half a bottle left in Rio with no regrets so I didn't have to check a bag. This is one of the most insipid drams out there. PS. We do agree on Duncan Taylor and never telling your girlfriend she's wrong.

[@WhiskeyVault]

How dare you disa........ oh wait. Ok, fair enough. But to ease our pain, you should send us some whisky.

[@jaintly]

Triplecap I couldn't agree more. This is weak, watery whiskey. One of the least enjoyable drams I've ever tasted. Got it as a gift, so no skin off my nose, but still... Never had such a weak single malt.

[@shugaroony]

Aye I bought it on offer at Christmas time. It was really cheap so thought it was worth a punt. It started off ok, but quickly faded into nothingness.

[@quesopasso]

Have to agree for the most part. Last time I sampled Aberfeldy 12 it was brown water. Almost no character to speak of. I will disagree about Dalmore 12, that has something very nice going for it by comparison.

[@ctefel]

Aberfeldy is the Coors Light of whisky. Piss water.

[@brantlyjustin]

Just picked up a bottle today and it's is beautiful

[@KwaPaN3R]

My absolute favourite in the 30€ range

[@danlepine9761]

Bring back the bag pipe intro.

[@daytonaukpc9387]

what a pair of total prats

[@chacehawkins4708]

Rex makes a second dad joke!

[@keithrichman6918]

Dewers is wedding scotch

[@stevewalther9965]

Is Dewars better than Alberfeldy?

[@LeClaw]

Dewar's owns the Aberfeldy distillery. it's part of their Blends

[@all4senna]

Aberfeldy and finch 😂

[@shotgunjimmy309]

Rex made a Dad joke!!

[@gustavjansson6499]

Which Highland Park is it?

[@tobelieve627]

One before they repackaged it seems.

[@Drew_Mason]

Hine