Before you ask, it's pronounced "a-nock," and comes from the Knockdhu distillery ("nock-DOO") in the village of Knock, somewhere in Aberdeenshire. This makes it a Highland Scotch, generally known for sweet, richly honeyed whiskies.
Aged a dozen years in ??? barrels - that's not a typo, I can't find the info anywhere - the bottle, container, and anCnoc website all decine to say. Based on the flavors (exceptionally well balanced) it's a mix of bourbon and sherry. It's bottled at a nice 43% ABV, and is one of the more beautiful whiskies to look at - a beautiful golden amber color.
Nose: Quite fragrant in a lovely floral way. Bouquet of fruit with a sweet citrus flavor coming forward. Honey in the air as well. Some alcohol but not too much. Heather and soft herbs.
Mouthfeel: Medium/average.
Palate: Very well balanced between the bourbon and sherry influences: honey and vanilla but faint variants, not overpowering. Ripe red grapes with tannins from the oak. Caramel and a nice earthiness. Some stranger things happening below the surface that I have a hard time putting a finger on - pear? Cedar chips? Pomegranate?? This is complex, but young. A wide array of flavors, artfully balanced, but many of them struggle to fully blossom on the tongue. I suspect anCnoc 16/22/35 are increasingly complex but in a fully realized way.
Finish: I get mostly pepper and honey. Very smooth finish, no roughness or wrong steps.
Verdict: Recommended. This is a very good Highland whisky, nicely balanced, good flavors, and quite affordable ($41 here). I am eager to try their older offerings.
Link to the anCnoc website for the 12 Year: http://ancnoc.com/whiskies/current-range/12-years-old/
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