W.L. Weller 12 Year Old, American Oak Cask, 2017, 45%

The character has a pleasing balance between the sweet, rounded notes and the more defining oak. Creamed corn and toasty vanilla set a clear tone on the nose, while the palate adds cocoa and dried fruit without losing its moderate sweetness. The mint and fruit on the long, oaky finish give it a fresher edge, which is a welcome counterpoint to the richer notes. A composed, clearly described bourbon, with enough contrast to hold my interest.

Reviewed by saltair owl

Nose

Lanolin, almond, creamed corn, toasty vanilla.

Palate

Heavily wheated, layered and moderately sweet; caramel, vanilla, oak, candied corn, ripe fruit, cocoa and dried fruit.

Finish

Long and oaky, with lingering honey, mint, fruit, vanilla and subtle spices.