Tullibardine 225 Sauternes Cask Finish - 70cl/43%

Tullibardine Distillery, located in Blackford, Perthshire, at the gateway to the Highlands, has roots in brewing dating back to 1488, when King James IV purchased beer there—the first recorded public beer sale in Scotland. Converted into a distillery in 1947-1949 by William Delmé-Evans (architect of Jura and Glenallachie), it was the first new distillery built in Scotland since 1900. Mothballed in the 1990s, it reopened in 2003 and was acquired in 2011 by French family-owned Picard Vins & Spiritueux (Terroirs Distillers). It uses pure spring water from the Ochil Hills and focuses on elegant, fruity Highland single malts with innovative cask finishes.

Tullibardine 225 Sauternes Cask Finish is a non-age-statement Highland single malt matured primarily in first-fill ex-bourbon barrels and finished in 225-litre ex-Sauternes casks (from Château Suduiraut), hence the name “225”. The Sauternes finish imparts rich sweet wine character, adding tropical fruit, honeyed notes and creamy texture while retaining Highland freshness. Bottled at 43% ABV, it offers an approachable, dessert-like expression with French wine influence.

Nosing: Fresh and inviting with citrusy lime, vanilla, oatmeal, subtle tropical hints and light honey sweetness.

Palate: Smooth and balanced; flavors of candied orange, pineapple, orange zest, white chocolate, dried fruits and gentle spice; creamy texture with tropical sweetness.

Finish: Medium length, creamy with lingering orange peel, honey, vanilla and a touch of oak warmth.