anCnoc 12 - 40%
Pronounced ‘a-nock’, the anCnoc range of whiskies are produced by the Knockdhu distillery. First established in 1894 and situated in the village of Knock in the heart of Aberdeenshire. the traditional processes used have changed little in the last 100 years.
Distillery notes:
The anCnoc 12 year old is renowned the world over. Known as a must-have in any whisky drinker’s collection, it’s light and yet complex. Smooth yet challenging. And each twist and turn delivers a surprise. In fact, this is a dram that has something for everyone.
Colour: Gentle amber with a slight yellow hue.
Nose: Soft, very aromatic with a hint of honey and lemon in the foreground.
Taste: Sweet to start with an appetising fruitiness and a long smooth finish. Light yet complex, smooth yet challenging. This is a dram that has something for everyone.
Appearance: Yellow gold, forms a thin line which beads and breaks rapidly to fall as quick, oily legs.
Nose: Light, lemon citrus, cut grass and a touch of heather honey.
Palate: Light, buttery mouthfeel. Honey sweetness, stewed apples, lemon zest, ripe banana, subtle vanilla, and just a hint of malt. Towards the finish mild cinnamon spice appears, providing a little prickle and gentle warmth.
Finish: Lingering and soft, malted milk biscuits with a dash of cinnamon, a light milky coffee note appears just at the close.
Summary: A proper summer whisky, light and refreshing yet with a buttery, almost chewy mouthfeel. The palate has a subtle complexity not immediately obvious from the nose, whilst the cinnamon latte note in the finish adds to the pleasure.
This is a great example of a light, easy drinking Highland malt and incredibly good value with a price point just above £30. Only 40% abv but, especially as a whisky to be enjoyed on a warm summer evening, no less enjoyable as a result.
If you would like to know more about anCnoc whiskies, and the Knockdhu distillery, follow the link to the company website.
Transparency: This sample was part of a 5 dram sample set, purchased from The Spirits Embassy. No goods or other incentives were exchanged, offered or requested for this independent review.
