As a long time watcher here Ralfy, I still don't understand too much more about the complexities of whiskey, but for some reason I keep coming back and do really enjoy your videos! Always very interesting! Cheers
I'm in Canada. I just got this as a birthday gift in 2021. I found that this scotch really needed a bit of time to fully open up, and then the ginger notes really pulled to the surface. I really like black tea with no milk, so the tannins were only a plus for me. :)
Glad you enjoy making the videos Ralfy for I find them interesting on many levels. I've avoided MaCallan for they are a bit out of my price range and I have better options. I'm grateful for your opinions and I have to say you haven't ever steered me wrong. In the September 30 to October 6th issue of "New Scientist" there was an interesting article titled "Genuine Article?" with a picture of Glenmorangie on the title page, it addresses fakery. Take care, Ossie
agreed with Ralfy... this is a simple one, very straightforward... but you can appreciate it for that. It's an easy but truly delicious dram, not something you need to work at. I recommend it when you're looking to enjoy a dram alongside some work or something. It won't take your attention away but will accentuate the moment a bit. It's a great whisky if you ask me... 10/10
I agree, not sure if it was my taste buds or the air in the bottle but it did seem to change. And hey, buddy! Greetings to @franklampard from a fellow Wichitan. And greetings to Ralfy, thank you for all the fine work!
Short and sweet.....does that sum up this malt now. Agree that the old 10 was fantastic and wish they'd do away with all the nas versions and just get back to making the good stuff. Looking forward to another afternoon dram on the 12th. Cheers
Its unfortunate how I had a very bad experience at MacCallan, in the summer of 2017. I was told to bugger off as soon as I got out of the visitors parking lot. Before I could get to the visitors center I was told that "this is a working distillery and I needed to get a tour guide to walk around". I then walked into my car and went to Glenfarclas and was free to explore and considering it was probably one of my only chances to go to Scotland I will never forget this experience.
@@thewhiskybothy Thanks for the reply Ralfy. I did not feel like sending a complaint would benefit me in any way at the time because, like I said, it is very expensive to go to Scotland for me and I may not have another chance to go in my life. Funny, I never did buy another Macallan again because I do not see what the big deal is. Consider that my complaint. I'm just happy sticking to the good stuff...Glendronach (where I bottled my own 11 year old), Glenfarclas, Glengoyne, Glenmorangie, etc.
@@gegernaut I wonder if I could show up at your door without an appointment? Yes, there are distilleries in Scotland where the visitor center is open to the public. But everyone knows it's not the case at The Macallan distillery because they want to give the guests that are able to look up the internet, get informations and actually book a slot to visit the best experience. It makes sense because also it is still a working sight. It's to many people now visiting and it's a matter of securitiy. And on every distillery I've been (and that has been a few now) there is a certain way (mostly marked yellow) you are allowed to to move and walk but you have to stay on it for security reasons. Thank god not a lot of stuff happens at distilleries in Scotland but it's still a fairly dangerous thing to do. That's why if you are on sight you'll be a good guest and stick to the rule and that's why people that have no appointment are not allowed in the area. Maybe doesn't sound fair to you but other people managed to do so. I've been to other closed distilleries where people just walked in while everything was running. You can't just walk in somewhere and expect everyone to treat you nice. It's a two way communication. Always easy to complain.
The 43% US version might be a bit better, but I agree with your review! There is no reason to buy the 12 YO DC at a higher price than the 12 YO sherry matured version (in the US). Thanks
Well, reason being that the standard 12 YO is extinct from the markets around here and a few other markets I believe. So if you feel nostalgic about an age stated Macallan, I'm afraid that's the one you have to buy.
Always nice to sit in, on one of your reviews. If you feel tempted to go back to the once a week review, it will be all right. All those half full bottles in your cupboard.
I rather enjoy Macallan as a distillery. They use good barley, know how to make the best of their stills, and generally source decent casks. Marketing and collectors have been degrading the whisky for years though, sadly. It seems worse at Macallan than at many other distillers, likely an effect of the prominence of their brand.
. . . 'first fill' can cover a wide range of spirit influence dynamic, the whisky reps generally do a good job but we should always be mindful as commentators of thier job to sell brands ! I think we are in a valuable position to help fans with our opinion and experience beyond brand messages.
43% in the US. Tastes like Glenmorangie 10 year (half the price) - not discounting the taste, just saying if you drink scotch daily like me you can save some money. My fav is still Glenlivet Founders Reserve.
I have started to play the guessing game as to the score to be given (I'm not that bored, really). I can honestly say I guessed 84/100 :) I'm not really a whisky drinker (once in a blue moon) but I enjoy the educational nature of the videos. Ralfy is a fair character :)
Ralfy, Thanks, again another quite nice, informative, & entertaining whisky review. --- [1] The Mac12 Dbl Cask that you reviewed here is at 40%. We lucky Yanks (New Orleans & US internet vendors) get both Mac 12 Sherry Oak & Mac 12 Dbl Cask at 43%. My guess is that Mac is trying to keep up with the wonderful US Whiskeys which (except for the generally 40% base-grade American Whiskeys) are at 45% & above ABV. --- [2] Do continue your reviews. You are much appreciated. Danke & Slainte, Richard
I agree. It has a really nice nose, but only tastes good over ice. I bought 2 when they were on sale for $45 USD. I'll probably keep the 2nd one as a collector.
Hey Ralfy. Today I wanted to buy a Laphroaig 8 or 10 years old from a free-shop on my way back home, but only a "4 casks" version of NAS-Laphroaig was available in the free-shop (which was also marked "traveller edition" on the box). When I checked the other brands, I noticed that the only age stated single malt available in that particular free-shop was a 16 years old Lagavulin. The same had happened before in Belgium airport free-shop where I wanted to buy a Dalmore 12 years old but I could only find "traveller retail edition" version of Dalmore with no age statement. I started noticing that age-stated single malts have started disappearing from free-shops in Europe. It seems that the distilleries started distributing "traveller retail series" for free-shops and the classical versions are not available to buy anymore. The clerks are telling that they only receive NAS-versions when a distiller's age stated single malt is sold out from their stocks. Can you address this issue please? What are your thoughts about these traveller editions?
. . . they are not on my 'buy list' . Best to not buy at airport shops, buy online, more options and generally cheaper, just do a search for "buy whisky locally" . Good luck.
Well Ralfy, some of us does not have that option because of the places we live in. I cannot buy online or locally for the same reason: customs tax. That's the reason I am used to buying from airport shops and this option is not available for the educated consumer anymore. I am really sad.
. . . sorry to say that airports are now not good options for a range of quality choice. I got three bottles of Canadian whisky in my suitcase before I flew home from Canada a few years ago ! None were bought at the airport.
This was my first bottle of scotch. Since, I’ve tried Macallan 10, and Speyburn 10. Macallan 12 remains the standard by which I evaluate all others...until something I like more comes along (which I doubt).
I absolutely enjoy watching them. You've never steered me wrong. On occasion, I have bought something that I didn't care for too much and I didn't go in thinking that I would either but your descriptions sometimes make me curious enough just to see for myself what you are talking about. A well rounded education - the good and the bad.
Ah Ralfy I wish I saw your review before I bought this. I bought a bottle yesterday. Although I believe everyone is different and like different things. I still consider you a leading authority and a S.M.E. (subject matter expert) on Whiskies and I always value your opinion. You Definately help me navigate through the different regions and selections of Whisky. I am not sure if I should return the bottle or open it and try it for myself.
I don't know about other markets, but the "old" 12YO hasn't been available for years around here. If I had to choose between the bottle reviewed here or Macallan Amber, I'd take the latter. It's a few bucks cheaper has strong sherry influence as well, but doesn't have those aggressive tanins Ralfy mentions as far as I remember. The 12 DC is probably trying to appeal to nostalgics who want an age stated Macallan.
Here in Ontario, Canada, this Macallan sells for $100. It isn’t worth it in my opinion. Glendronach 12 and Aberlour 12 Double Cask, both of which I prefer, sell for $77 and $70, respectively. Another terrific video, Ralfy.
I just opened a miniature of this last night(43% abv in the US). I agree on the tannins taking over(score: 82 for me). We still get the 12yo Sherry Cask and it is so much better.
I predicted about an 84...high 80s based on the review and then subtracting 3 to 5 because....Macallan + Ralfy. I like this distillery better than he does these days, I guess.
jerrodl jerrodl - Ha ha, yes I love trying to guess the Malt Mark before he gives it, I'm getting quite good at it! :) (Forgot to play this time though)
I have tried and enjoyed Macallan 18yo in the past at a few bars. About four years ago I could have bought a bottle for about $100-120. Now, it goes for well over $220 per bottle. Wish I had bought a few. When will the scotch bubble burst?
for which the uneducated gullible consumers are partially to blame. I enjoyed a couple of macallans that I've tried, but for the price I'd rather watch Ralfy and seek out a more obscure malt with better value.
Just got a bottle for Christmas, it’s a solid Scotch but I was a bit disappointed with it, I usually get Glenlivet 12 for the holidays and I find that to be much tastier.🥃
this is a fantastic scotch. Here's the bottom line - If you like your scotch to taste like a bunch of people peed on a campfire, then drained that into a bottle - go for something like Laguvulin or with Islay on the label. if you like something that tastes delicious and smooth, buy Johnny Walker Gold Reserve, Glenlivet blue, or this one. It's very nice, a fantastic bottle to own, and one you will never disappoint as a gift.
The solvent notes I expect are from 2nd and 3rd fill casks not having time to complete reductive maturation. But what is the source of the tannin. Have they used some virgin oak to try and flavour it up quickly.. The colour looks like ha heavy hand on the Caramel, maybe that is contributing to the bitterness. I was in a bar in the rural Wairarapa in the weekend, and amazed to find a 27yo Glen Moray SMWS 35.129 Dans un auberge en Gascoigne. I think it is the first non Sherried Glen Moray I've had, and it was fabulous. 2nd fill ex-bourbon. Now I just want to take some mates back there and finish the bottle.
Any thoughts on the Double Cask 15 or 18? For the £100 and £250 price point - any thoughts on going one bottle expensive or going many samples, or say 2-4 bottles of other things? It seems it’s worth blind tate testing things just to take away perceived cost from whether you enjoy something more or less
I really enjoy your reviews and have for quite some time! I used to enjoy the Macallan Cask strength from back in the day, don't I wish I had stocked up on several bottles before it disappeared! Anyway, Ralphy have you tried the sexton Irish whiskey yet? I'm partaking in a bottle this weekend really enjoying it! Thanks for all your reviewing and keep up the good work, cheers!
I much prefer the 12 year sherry cask to either the double cask OR the 18 Sherry. The 12 year double cask has too much tannins and the 18 sherry has too much oak. I still the the Macallan 12 year sherry cask is one of the best single malts produced.
I enjoyed this, but thought it was a little overpriced. The tannins were strong in this. Some retailers are overcharging for this. About £10 above standard 12 y.o. seems about right, you think?
I would like to ask about your rating. What is it according to? What would represent say 100, 90, 80 etc ... if 100 is something doable. Or 90 is perfecet (and everything above is just above any expectations) and 100 is just imaginable ... Like for example glycemic index is according to glucose, so you can exceed 100 etc ...
indeed, it was a pleasant surprise when i saw it on my double cask bottling. They have updated the bottle design a tad aswell, giving it a look closer to the rare cask expression. I believe their entire core range has gone through a makeover, so the natural colour statement on the bottle can be expected on their core range from now on. It was about time though, it is strange that they haven't stated it on the bottle before. Better late than never i suppose.
I'm Macallan fan and was a little bit disappointed when I tried it, the nose is good but the the taste really simple. I was expecting much more flavour wise since it is a double cask, and it was not there.
Thanks Ralfy. I don’t hear you often compare a malt to another? Something like “this is a bit like a Dalwhinnie 15 with a slight sherry finish.” Or is that considered lazy reviewing?
I wasn't saying you're doing lazy reviewing, I was suggesting that my suggestion of comparing one malt to another would be lazy. Do you avoid comparing a malt to another at times? I notice that you don't often do it
. . . more marketing, and no age statement, they call it that because they have to call it something, NOT a name whisky makers would want to use ! . . . only marketing spinners.
My own experience of this was "average". I think I have experienced much better. For me (and of course this is just my opinion) I would have struggled to get the 12yo double cask to 80/100. Maybe on a good day I might have given it 80 or 81.. That's just my palate.
Interesting history behind their slide away from the classic sherry finish via their "classic" 2004 ish stalking horse. 😢😢overpriced and under sherried😢 a shadow of even the 10yo of the 1990s.
Ralfy: Is it true that the Isle of Man is a renowned for it's oyster stout? One of my favorite beers, unfortunately I have to go to New York City (Porterhouse Brewing) to get it.
Ralfy dear- Hope you and the bothy have survived ex-Ophelia (a day after)...I'm put in mind of your "Rosebank on a Windy Day" vlog, tho' from what I've read on the interweb this was a more serious situation even than the loss of a few drops of that precious nectar, care of a random wind gust (hate to remind you). Anyway, best wishes as always!
I'm drinking this right now. I genuinely think it is garbage. Would absolutely pick the Monkey Shoulder blend at half the price any day. Rough, raw, sickly sweet, zero complexity. Avoid.
Ralfy, I just ordered Bunnahabhain 27 yo Chandlers tobacco pouch, Wemyss. Is this a whisky you have any experience of or do you know if it is any good? Cheers from Sweden!
Soteriologe - I would argue that this is essentially the first half of a normal Ralfy Review, without the "bit extra", so if you like the idea of shorter videos you could just watch the review part and skip the rest and those of us who like the long videos can watch the whole thing :)
Fritters87 - you mustn't have paid attention since the review only starts in earnest at 3:30, and he just happened to have put that "bit extra" in front. Both parts are good, precise and informative and wouldn't have benefitted from a spreading out over a longer time span.
Yea, kinda low. if you compare that to other less than 85 scores it will stick out both in price and the general review where not much bad was said and a lot of good.. IT'S definitely a mark based on prejudice and an over concern with price.. Somehow you have to get a grip on how pricing is dealt with, it can't be chalked up to your use of a value for the buck because then your numbers are meaningless to someone whos got the money and meaningless in general. IT will only relate to someone more or less exactly in your financial situation with your concept of what you want to spend on a bottle. MAYBE TWO SCORES, A ABSOLUTE ONE AND A SCORE GROUPED IN A PRICE RANGE. LOOK, if the mark was right, which it wasn't, if you definitely have a hate for filtration and coloring and over processing then don't even buy the stuff,, at LEAST that would make sence.
![ละลาย (LALALYE) - DAOU PITTAYA ต้าห์อู๋ พิทยา [OFFICIAL MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/wo6r9TgausI/mqdefault.jpg)
As a long time watcher here Ralfy, I still don't understand too much more about the complexities of whiskey, but for some reason I keep coming back and do really enjoy your videos! Always very interesting! Cheers
. . . happy to help with the malt-moments !
+ralfydotcom 😁
We bought a mini bottle of this in the US, your review makes me wanna crack it open right now and test it out! Cheers
To confirm, I do enjoy watching them.
I'm in Canada. I just got this as a birthday gift in 2021. I found that this scotch really needed a bit of time to fully open up, and then the ginger notes really pulled to the surface. I really like black tea with no milk, so the tannins were only a plus for me. :)
Glad you enjoy making the videos Ralfy for I find them interesting on many levels. I've avoided MaCallan for they are a bit out of my price range and I have better options. I'm grateful for your opinions and I have to say you haven't ever steered me wrong. In the September 30 to October 6th issue of "New Scientist" there was an interesting article titled "Genuine Article?" with a picture of Glenmorangie on the title page, it addresses fakery. Take care, Ossie
I have a bottle of Highland Park 12 yo 43% which is a more affordable scotch that this one and is much better as well in my opinion. Nice review :)
agreed with Ralfy... this is a simple one, very straightforward... but you can appreciate it for that. It's an easy but truly delicious dram, not something you need to work at. I recommend it when you're looking to enjoy a dram alongside some work or something. It won't take your attention away but will accentuate the moment a bit. It's a great whisky if you ask me... 10/10
I had a bottle of this whisky last year. It definitely improved after a few months when it had oxidized a bit.
I agree, not sure if it was my taste buds or the air in the bottle but it did seem to change. And hey, buddy! Greetings to @franklampard from a fellow Wichitan. And greetings to Ralfy, thank you for all the fine work!
It tasted much better after I came back to it later. So I'll let it sit awhile longer.👍
Always a learning experience with each video - good onya Ralfy.....
Short and sweet.....does that sum up this malt now. Agree that the old 10 was fantastic and wish they'd do away with all the nas versions and just get back to making the good stuff. Looking forward to another afternoon dram on the 12th. Cheers
Its unfortunate how I had a very bad experience at MacCallan, in the summer of 2017. I was told to bugger off as soon as I got out of the visitors parking lot. Before I could get to the visitors center I was told that "this is a working distillery and I needed to get a tour guide to walk around". I then walked into my car and went to Glenfarclas and was free to explore and considering it was probably one of my only chances to go to Scotland I will never forget this experience.
. . . Shame on Macallan. I hope you messaged a complaint to them.
@@thewhiskybothy Thanks for the reply Ralfy. I did not feel like sending a complaint would benefit me in any way at the time because, like I said, it is very expensive to go to Scotland for me and I may not have another chance to go in my life. Funny, I never did buy another Macallan again because I do not see what the big deal is. Consider that my complaint. I'm just happy sticking to the good stuff...Glendronach (where I bottled my own 11 year old), Glenfarclas, Glengoyne, Glenmorangie, etc.
@@gegernaut I wonder if I could show up at your door without an appointment? Yes, there are distilleries in Scotland where the visitor center is open to the public. But everyone knows it's not the case at The Macallan distillery because they want to give the guests that are able to look up the internet, get informations and actually book a slot to visit the best experience. It makes sense because also it is still a working sight. It's to many people now visiting and it's a matter of securitiy. And on every distillery I've been (and that has been a few now) there is a certain way (mostly marked yellow) you are allowed to to move and walk but you have to stay on it for security reasons. Thank god not a lot of stuff happens at distilleries in Scotland but it's still a fairly dangerous thing to do. That's why if you are on sight you'll be a good guest and stick to the rule and that's why people that have no appointment are not allowed in the area. Maybe doesn't sound fair to you but other people managed to do so. I've been to other closed distilleries where people just walked in while everything was running. You can't just walk in somewhere and expect everyone to treat you nice. It's a two way communication. Always easy to complain.
I don't think it's the alcohol talking, Ralfy's the MAN!! Thanks fella!
There is a 43% version available (at least in the US). It is markedly better than the 40% bottling.
Glad you are enjoying making them! I am enjoying watching them.
everytime you make your vlog really enoyed and learning a lot in my malt journey. thanx Ralfy.
. . . happy to help with the malt-moments !
8 min ralfy video? What dimension are we in? What planet in the interstellar universe did we get transported to?
. . . thought it would make an interesting change !
ralfydotcom certainly not complaining!
Well done Ralfy - I will soon have posted my 500th whisky review video in German - please keep them coming - you have been an inspiration for me!
. . .
glücklich, mit den Malzmomenten zu helfen!
The 43% US version might be a bit better, but I agree with your review! There is no reason to buy the 12 YO DC at a higher price than the 12 YO sherry matured version (in the US). Thanks
Well, reason being that the standard 12 YO is extinct from the markets around here and a few other markets I believe. So if you feel nostalgic about an age stated Macallan, I'm afraid that's the one you have to buy.
in the US there's still sherried 12, but the price was jacked up ~30% a few months ago.
thank you so much for doing this! I have been enjoying whiskey while watching your videos since 2010.
Always nice to sit in, on one of your reviews. If you feel tempted to go back to the once a week review, it will be all right. All those half full bottles in your cupboard.
A little bit of Ralfy goes a long way...
You gave it a better score than I expected Ralfy aha
the Mac was my first love
I rather enjoy Macallan as a distillery. They use good barley, know how to make the best of their stills, and generally source decent casks. Marketing and collectors have been degrading the whisky for years though, sadly. It seems worse at Macallan than at many other distillers, likely an effect of the prominence of their brand.
I was lucky enough to get the 43% version from the US despite living in Toronto. I actually did a head to head with the 40%. 43% is better clearly.
. . . it's more than just an extra 3%vol, there's simply better casks in higher strength versions !
ralfydotcom apparently there is more first fill barrels used in the 40% version according to Nicholas Villalon the New York Mac/HP Ambassador.
. . . 'first fill' can cover a wide range of spirit influence dynamic, the whisky reps generally do a good job but we should always be mindful as commentators of thier job to sell brands !
I think we are in a valuable position to help fans with our opinion and experience beyond brand messages.
ralfydotcom couldn’t agree more. Cheers Ralfy, great review.
Whisky In The 6 what was the price at LCBO for this?
43% in the US. Tastes like Glenmorangie 10 year (half the price) - not discounting the taste, just saying if you drink scotch daily like me you can save some money. My fav is still Glenlivet Founders Reserve.
Excellent, Ralfy. One of the big local market only blended Scotch brands here does the hologram on their older bottles - a nice touch.
4 am on a Sunday, best time for some scotch
I have started to play the guessing game as to the score to be given (I'm not that bored, really). I can honestly say I guessed 84/100 :) I'm not really a whisky drinker (once in a blue moon) but I enjoy the educational nature of the videos. Ralfy is a fair character :)
A little low score for my standards but not far from it. Would give to it a 89 out of 100 solid. Very delightful dram.
I started drinking a tasting whisky a month ago oh boy I was missing out
It’s every bit as serious as wine, but it flies under the radar of many people.
the more you drink , the better it tastes.
@@cmbrn8315 and the more you taste the more you want and the more you drink life is good
Shortest review in 7yrs Its a good thing about Quality over Quantity!
Whisky Review 417 on 16-Dec-13 was 6:37 (whisky review 417 - Macallan Directors Edition (Re-recorded))
Ralfy, Thanks, again another quite nice, informative, & entertaining whisky review.
--- [1] The Mac12 Dbl Cask that you reviewed here is at 40%. We lucky Yanks (New Orleans & US internet vendors) get both Mac 12 Sherry Oak & Mac 12 Dbl Cask at 43%. My guess is that Mac is trying to keep up with the wonderful US Whiskeys which (except for the generally 40% base-grade American Whiskeys) are at 45% & above ABV.
--- [2] Do continue your reviews. You are much appreciated. Danke & Slainte, Richard
. . . you lucky people getting an extra 3% !
Yes, an extra 3%, plus a nice dollop of additional flavor. :)
I agree. It has a really nice nose, but only tastes good over ice. I bought 2 when they were on sale for $45 USD. I'll probably keep the 2nd one as a collector.
You did the usual excellent review. Cheers Ralfy!
Hey Ralfy. Today I wanted to buy a Laphroaig 8 or 10 years old from a free-shop on my way back home, but only a "4 casks" version of NAS-Laphroaig was available in the free-shop (which was also marked "traveller edition" on the box). When I checked the other brands, I noticed that the only age stated single malt available in that particular free-shop was a 16 years old Lagavulin. The same had happened before in Belgium airport free-shop where I wanted to buy a Dalmore 12 years old but I could only find "traveller retail edition" version of Dalmore with no age statement. I started noticing that age-stated single malts have started disappearing from free-shops in Europe. It seems that the distilleries started distributing "traveller retail series" for free-shops and the classical versions are not available to buy anymore. The clerks are telling that they only receive NAS-versions when a distiller's age stated single malt is sold out from their stocks. Can you address this issue please? What are your thoughts about these traveller editions?
. . . they are not on my 'buy list' . Best to not buy at airport shops, buy online, more options and generally cheaper, just do a search for "buy whisky locally" . Good luck.
Well Ralfy, some of us does not have that option because of the places we live in. I cannot buy online or locally for the same reason: customs tax. That's the reason I am used to buying from airport shops and this option is not available for the educated consumer anymore. I am really sad.
. . . sorry to say that airports are now not good options for a range of quality choice. I got three bottles of Canadian whisky in my suitcase before I flew home from Canada a few years ago ! None were bought at the airport.
This was my first bottle of scotch. Since, I’ve tried Macallan 10, and Speyburn 10. Macallan 12 remains the standard by which I evaluate all others...until something I like more comes along (which I doubt).
this is the double cask, not the standard The Macallan 12 Year Old Sherry Oak Cask
I absolutely enjoy watching them. You've never steered me wrong. On occasion, I have bought something that I didn't care for too much and I didn't go in thinking that I would either but your descriptions sometimes make me curious enough just to see for myself what you are talking about. A well rounded education - the good and the bad.
This one is a great scotch. Almost as good as Johnnie Walker Green Label. Really want to try the 18yr Macallan.
Almost
There are many better malts for less money
@@ahpadt like which?
Ah Ralfy I wish I saw your review before I bought this. I bought a bottle yesterday. Although I believe everyone is different and like different things. I still consider you a leading authority and a S.M.E. (subject matter expert) on Whiskies and I always value your opinion. You Definately help me navigate through the different regions and selections of Whisky. I am not sure if I should return the bottle or open it and try it for myself.
. . . happy to help with the malt-moments !
Short but sweet Ralfy, thanks once more.
I don't know about other markets, but the "old" 12YO hasn't been available for years around here. If I had to choose between the bottle reviewed here or Macallan Amber, I'd take the latter. It's a few bucks cheaper has strong sherry influence as well, but doesn't have those aggressive tanins Ralfy mentions as far as I remember. The 12 DC is probably trying to appeal to nostalgics who want an age stated Macallan.
I do enjoy watching them Ralfy! Two Macallan's in a row eh? Gracias, sir.
Here in Ontario, Canada, this Macallan sells for $100. It isn’t worth it in my opinion. Glendronach 12 and Aberlour 12 Double Cask, both of which I prefer, sell for $77 and $70, respectively. Another terrific video, Ralfy.
UnboundOdysseus
wow. Here in Germany the Macallan is 70 and a GD 12 35 Euros. So double of the price.
I just opened a miniature of this last night(43% abv in the US). I agree on the tannins taking over(score: 82 for me). We still get the 12yo Sherry Cask and it is so much better.
I got a bottle of the 18yo for my birthday from my Wife. Disappointing, not worth the price. I could have gotten a few bottles of GlenDronach!
. . . it happens to us all !
Glendronach 18 , Yes.
I actually quite like this one. It's becoming my go-to.
I predicted about an 84...high 80s based on the review and then subtracting 3 to 5 because....Macallan + Ralfy. I like this distillery better than he does these days, I guess.
jerrodl jerrodl - Ha ha, yes I love trying to guess the Malt Mark before he gives it, I'm getting quite good at it! :) (Forgot to play this time though)
I have tried and enjoyed Macallan 18yo in the past at a few bars. About four years ago I could have bought a bottle for about $100-120. Now, it goes for well over $220 per bottle. Wish I had bought a few. When will the scotch bubble burst?
. . . it's a big bubble ! . . . who knows when, I thought it would have popped by now.
Take that Macallan. All that prestige and you get an 84.
. . . 'Prestige' from marketing, NOT from quality.
for which the uneducated gullible consumers are partially to blame. I enjoyed a couple of macallans that I've tried, but for the price I'd rather watch Ralfy and seek out a more obscure malt with better value.
Just got a bottle for Christmas, it’s a solid Scotch but I was a bit disappointed with it, I usually get Glenlivet 12 for the holidays and I find that to be much tastier.🥃
Hi Ralfy from New Zealand 🇳🇿
this is a fantastic scotch. Here's the bottom line - If you like your scotch to taste like a bunch of people peed on a campfire, then drained that into a bottle - go for something like Laguvulin or with Islay on the label. if you like something that tastes delicious and smooth, buy Johnny Walker Gold Reserve, Glenlivet blue, or this one. It's very nice, a fantastic bottle to own, and one you will never disappoint as a gift.
Interesting that your version is 40%. The one available in the US is 43%.
This happens all the time, pretty much every 40% single malt in Scotland will be bottled at 43% for the US or European market.
I'd be curious to taste the 40%, I actually think the 43% is a decent scotch.
Awesome job on the review I enjoy watching your reviews
43% in the US... great stuff!
The brevity of this review says it all...but done like the professional he is.
The solvent notes I expect are from 2nd and 3rd fill casks not having time to complete reductive maturation. But what is the source of the tannin. Have they used some virgin oak to try and flavour it up quickly.. The colour looks like ha heavy hand on the Caramel, maybe that is contributing to the bitterness.
I was in a bar in the rural Wairarapa in the weekend, and amazed to find a 27yo Glen Moray SMWS 35.129 Dans un auberge en Gascoigne. I think it is the first non Sherried Glen Moray I've had, and it was fabulous. 2nd fill ex-bourbon.
Now I just want to take some mates back there and finish the bottle.
. . . finish that bottle, it needs to be appreciated !
Any thoughts on the Double Cask 15 or 18?
For the £100 and £250 price point - any thoughts on going one bottle expensive or going many samples, or say 2-4 bottles of other things?
It seems it’s worth blind tate testing things just to take away perceived cost from whether you enjoy something more or less
I really enjoy your reviews and have for quite some time! I used to enjoy the Macallan Cask strength from back in the day, don't I wish I had stocked up on several bottles before it disappeared!
Anyway, Ralphy have you tried the sexton Irish whiskey yet? I'm partaking in a bottle this weekend really enjoying it! Thanks for all your reviewing and keep up the good work, cheers!
I much prefer the 12 year sherry cask to either the double cask OR the 18 Sherry. The 12 year double cask has too much tannins and the 18 sherry has too much oak. I still the the Macallan 12 year sherry cask is one of the best single malts produced.
Should it try this one? Very differnet to the Standard 12 Y Sherry?
I enjoyed this, but thought it was a little overpriced. The tannins were strong in this. Some retailers are overcharging for this. About £10 above standard 12 y.o. seems about right, you think?
. . . £10 too much !
This scotch is much better than an 84/100... Macallan did a great job on this expression. Much better than the standard 12 yr sherry.
They did a great job of at least stating the age, beyond that a mark of 84 is generous. Very generous.
Keep the videos coming! Love em!
I would like to ask about your rating. What is it according to? What would represent say 100, 90, 80 etc ... if 100 is something doable. Or 90 is perfecet (and everything above is just above any expectations) and 100 is just imaginable ... Like for example glycemic index is according to glucose, so you can exceed 100 etc ...
Hi
Which 1 s more complex n better as well as more collectable? Bookers or highwest campfire?
Macallan are finally putting the natural colour statement on their bottles! :o
. . . good to hear this !
indeed, it was a pleasant surprise when i saw it on my double cask bottling. They have updated the bottle design a tad aswell, giving it a look closer to the rare cask expression. I believe their entire core range has gone through a makeover, so the natural colour statement on the bottle can be expected on their core range from now on. It was about time though, it is strange that they haven't stated it on the bottle before. Better late than never i suppose.
This is about 2x as much as the Glenlivet 12 where I'm at. Is it really 2x better than the Glenlivet?
How many grams is recommended to drink this whiskey in the evening?
I'm Macallan fan and was a little bit disappointed when I tried it, the nose is good but the the taste really simple.
I was expecting much more flavour wise since it is a double cask, and it was not there.
Thanks Ralfy. I don’t hear you often compare a malt to another? Something like “this is a bit like a Dalwhinnie 15 with a slight sherry finish.” Or is that considered lazy reviewing?
. . . not lazy reviewing, just an option for reference.
I wasn't saying you're doing lazy reviewing, I was suggesting that my suggestion of comparing one malt to another would be lazy. Do you avoid comparing a malt to another at times? I notice that you don't often do it
We might not be able to get Cuban cigars legally in the US, but at least we get the 43% bottles of scotch 😉
I always enjoy your reviews, Ralfy. Anytime I see a new upload, I look forward to what you have to share with us.
@ralfy-Do macallan 12yo double cask and macallan select oak taste like a burbon?
Not really
Hi Ralfy, any thoughts on Dewar's White Label "Scratched Cask" ?
. . . more marketing, and no age statement, they call it that because they have to call it something, NOT a name whisky makers would want to use ! . . . only marketing spinners.
My own experience of this was "average". I think I have experienced much better. For me (and of course this is just my opinion) I would have struggled to get the 12yo double cask to 80/100. Maybe on a good day I might have given it 80 or 81.. That's just my palate.
Interesting history behind their slide away from the classic sherry finish via their "classic" 2004 ish stalking horse. 😢😢overpriced and under sherried😢 a shadow of even the 10yo of the 1990s.
I would like to see a Review for Old Ballantruan (10yo; Tomintoul Distillery) - Thank you!
Ralfy: Is it true that the Isle of Man is a renowned for it's oyster stout? One of my favorite beers, unfortunately I have to go to New York City (Porterhouse Brewing) to get it.
. . . not really, it has good ales but no specialities !
Thanks Ralfy, the Isle is an interesting place.
I really think this channel sould introduced by the tune of Andy Stuart, loch Campbeltown
Ralfy is the black on your walls mold?
. . . yes.
He cleans it occasionally. :-)
There is only one person in the world who does not enjoy watching Ralfy.
I had a glass of this in a restaurant today. I loved it! For a Gold Label drinker, this was on another level.
Ralfy dear-
Hope you and the bothy have survived ex-Ophelia (a day after)...I'm put in mind of your "Rosebank on a Windy Day" vlog, tho' from what I've read on the interweb this was a more serious situation even than the loss of a few drops of that precious nectar, care of a random wind gust (hate to remind you). Anyway, best wishes as always!
Hi Ralfy! How about reviewing Balblair 99? Your reviews are fantastic. Very educational 👍 keep up the good work
. . . good idea !
I'm drinking this right now. I genuinely think it is garbage. Would absolutely pick the Monkey Shoulder blend at half the price any day. Rough, raw, sickly sweet, zero complexity. Avoid.
Ralfy, I just ordered Bunnahabhain 27 yo Chandlers tobacco pouch, Wemyss. Is this a whisky you have any experience of or do you know if it is any good?
Cheers from Sweden!
. . . sounds good ! but only the taste will tell if you have a good, great, or o/k malt ! good luck.
"A fairly basic generic jobbing version of Macallan" well shit i just bought it for $65 and that makes me feel great LOL
This or Amber?
. . . this !
How do I send a malt mention to Ralfy?
Just state it here, he usually picks them up. If he doesn't respond try in his next video.
Here it goes...Malt Mention: Machiavellian Montreal Malties
. . . now on the M-mention List, thanks !
Do the new Ardmore 20 y/o please. Thanks!
Macallan 12 Sherry Cask much better, the 43% version.
Said basic so much I thought he'd slip a bitch right after one. Lol good review, short and to the point.
REPLY
Short is good !
Soteriologe - I would argue that this is essentially the first half of a normal Ralfy Review, without the "bit extra", so if you like the idea of shorter videos you could just watch the review part and skip the rest and those of us who like the long videos can watch the whole thing :)
Fritters87 - you mustn't have paid attention since the review only starts in earnest at 3:30, and he just happened to have put that "bit extra" in front. Both parts are good, precise and informative and wouldn't have benefitted from a spreading out over a longer time span.
❤️👍🥃
Absolutely nothing has gone out of that glass... I've watched it 3 times and screens it.. what a blag
Yea, kinda low. if you compare that to other less than 85 scores it will stick out both in price and the general review where not much bad was said and a lot of good.. IT'S definitely a mark based on prejudice and an over concern with price.. Somehow you have to get a grip on how pricing is dealt with, it can't be chalked up to your use of a value for the buck because then your numbers are meaningless to someone whos got the money and meaningless in general. IT will only relate to someone more or less exactly in your financial situation with your concept of what you want to spend on a bottle. MAYBE TWO SCORES, A ABSOLUTE ONE AND A SCORE GROUPED IN A PRICE RANGE. LOOK, if the mark was right, which it wasn't, if you definitely have a hate for filtration and coloring and over processing then don't even buy the stuff,, at LEAST that would make sence.
Lavavulin 16. There's really nothing else that needs to be said. This is crap.
Hey Ralpy! Can you please check your direct messages?