Old Pulteney 12 yo

Old Pulteney 12 yo is a coastal single malt Scotch whisky that carries a clear sense of place in its aroma and flavour. Its profile speaks of sea air and maritime influence while remaining approachable and balanced, which makes it a versatile choice for both newcomers and experienced whisky drinkers. The spirit shows an interplay of gentle sweetness and salinity that evolves as it breathes in the glass.

On the nose you can expect a mix of fresh citrus and malted grain framed by a light maritime character. There is a clarity to the aromas that hints at green apple, lemon peel, and honeyed cereal, while subtle briny notes add an invigorating lift. The overall impression is bright and inviting, rather than heavy or overly oaked.

The palate continues the coastal story with a mix of sweet and savory elements. Ripe orchard fruit and soft toffee emerge alongside a saline edge that keeps the flavours lively. Fine spice and a touch of oak tannin provide structure, leading to a finish that is drying and gently warming. This balance makes the whisky enjoyable neat or with a splash of water to open the aromatics.

Part of the 1001Spirits selection, Old Pulteney 12 yo works well as a contemplative dram and as a source of inspiration for classic whisky cocktails. It is a bottle that brings texture and coastal brightness to a dram served on its own and lends character to mixed drinks such as the Rob Roy or a whisky sour when a single malt expression is desired.

Whisky style & Palate

This expression presents a coastal single malt character that blends maritime freshness with rounded malt sweetness. The flavours are direct yet nuanced, offering brightness alongside a savoury undercurrent that evokes sea spray and coastal air.

On the palate the whisky shows ripe fruit notes like apple and citrus, tempered by soft caramel and honey. There is a subtle spiciness that threads through the middle of the palate providing additional depth and a gentle complexity.

Taste & Structure of the whisky

The structure is light to medium bodied with a clean malt backbone and a balanced interaction between sweet and saline elements. Texture is smooth rather than heavy, which makes the whisky feel lively across the mouth.

Development is steady from first sip to finish. Initial sweetness gives way to drier oak notes and a peppery spice that lingers. The finish is relatively long with a saline, slightly dry echo and a warming sense that invites another sip.

Serving suggestions

Best enjoyed at around 18°C, which allows the aromatic range to express itself without diminishing the palate structure. Serve in a tulip shaped glass or a whisky tumbler to concentrate the aromas and encourage gentle nosing.

For those who like a touch of dilution, a few drops of water will open the flavours and reveal hidden citrus and honeyed notes. The whisky is equally rewarding neat for tasting sessions where the coastal character is the focus.

Food pairings for this whisky

This whisky pairs particularly well with seafood that can echo its maritime notes, such as smoked salmon, salt-baked fish, or shellfish. The briny contrast enhances the whisky's coastal aromas while soft fruit notes round out the palate.

Heavier or spiced dishes like herb-roasted poultry and grilled lamb also work well, where the whisky's subtle sweetness and spice can complement roasted flavours. For cheese pairings, seek aged cheddar, Manchego, or a firm blue cheese to stand up to the spirit's dryness and peppery finish.

Cocktail inspiration and final thoughts

As a single malt, Old Pulteney 12 yo brings character to classic whisky cocktails when a distinctive malt expression is desired. Think of the Rob Roy as a scotch-forward classic and the whisky sour as a citrus-driven choice where the malt can add depth. These references are meant as inspiration rather than recipes.

Overall, this whisky offers a harmonious balance of coastal freshness and malted sweetness that makes it suitable for thoughtful sipping and culinary pairings alike. Included in the 1001Spirits selection, it presents a maritime personality that is both accessible and distinctive for those exploring coastal Scotch whiskies.