Tullibardine 12-Year Double Wood and The Murray 2008 Châteauneuf-du-Pape

If you found yourself in the storm’s path, chances are you’re still digging out this morning. We were close to a foot of snow the last time I looked, with more expected later this afternoon. If there’s no pressing reason to head outside, staying cozy indoors seems like the wisest choice. So settle in, pull up a chair, and let me share my thoughts on two expressions I recently had the pleasure of sampling.

Tullibardine is a Highland single malt Scotch whisky. My first experience with the brand was their 15-year expression, which I truly enjoyed. Now, I’m excited to see how these two compare.


Tullibardine 12-Year Double Wood (US exclusive): This whisky begins its journey in first-fill bourbon barrels before being refined in first-fill sherry casks.

Nose: vanilla and spices

Palate: spices, lightly sweet and vanilla

Finish: spices and light sweetness

Cost: $45

ABV: 43%


The Murray 2008 Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Distilled in 2008 and bottled in 2024, with a limited global release of just 15,720 bottles.

Nose: dark fruit, vanilla and caramel

Palate: spices, berries, and light sweetness

Finish: fruit and spices

Cost: $100-$150

ABV: 46%


The 12-year expression is a solid whisky—light with delightful notes of spice and vanilla. At its price point, it’s an excellent value.

Now, The Murray 2008 Châteauneuf-du-Pape is on another level. Wow! This one blew me away. This whisky is truly exceptional, think deep, dark fruits like plums and blackberries, layered with spice and just the right touch of sweetness. I loved it—it’s now my favorite expression from Tullibardine. It is on the pricey side, but if you can swing it, it’s absolutely worth it.

Cheers!

Note: The contents on my blog are solely my opinion. To me every palate is different! Although I may or may not like a product, I always recommend people to try it and make up their own minds.

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