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7.8

Twelve Barrels

Name: Twelve Barrels
Brand: Twelve Barrels

Canada Blend Score: 7.8/10

Twelve Barrels is a well-regarded Blend whiskey crafted in Canada. With an impressive rating of 7.8/10, it features distinctive notes of Almond, Apple, Caramel. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts seeking blend expressions from Canada.

About This Whiskey

Twelve Barrels is a relatively recent brand in the world of Canadian whisky, and it stands out for its focus on small-batch production and a higher level of craftsmanship. The name "Twelve Barrels" refers to the fact that the whisky is made from a select, limited number of barrels to maintain quality, consistency, and a more artisanal approach to blending and maturation. While not as widely known as some of the larger Canadian whisky brands, Twelve Barrels has garnered attention for its dedication to creating distinctive, premium products. Typically, Twelve Barrels whiskies are blended expressions, with the whisky often using a combination of rye, corn, and sometimes barley, which is typical of Canadian whisky. The process of aging in a carefully selected set of barrels, often American oak, allows the whisky to develop a complex and layered flavor profile, with balance between sweetness and spice. Given that Twelve Barrels is a brand that is more focused on quality and craftsmanship rather than mass production, it tends to appeal to those looking for a premium, well-aged, and flavorful Canadian whisky.

Tasting Notes

NOSE: On the nose, Twelve Barrels offers a balanced blend of sweet and spicy aromas that characterize well-aged Canadian whisky. Vanilla and caramel are the most prominent aromas, which come from the American oak barrels during the maturation process. These give the whisky a smooth, almost dessert-like quality. There’s a subtle rye spice in the background, with hints of black pepper, cinnamon, and a touch of cloves, adding complexity and depth. Oak is present as well, contributing a faint woodiness and a light charred note that adds richness without overpowering the sweeter aromas. Some fruitiness comes through as well, with hints of apple, pear, and even a trace of dried fruit like raisins or figs. A slight nutty aroma, perhaps resembling almond or hazelnut, adds an extra layer of complexity.

TASTE: On the palate, Twelve Barrels offers a smooth and balanced profile, with a creamy mouthfeel and a good interplay between sweetness, spice, and oak. The first impression is one of sweetness, with caramel, toffee, and vanilla enveloping the taste buds. This is typical of Canadian whiskies aged in American oak. As the whisky develops, the rye spice begins to assert itself, with mild black pepper, cinnamon, and a touch of ginger providing warmth and a bit of a kick. The oak influence becomes more apparent, with a woody, slightly charred flavor emerging, adding depth without overpowering the balance of sweetness and spice. There’s a light fruitiness in the middle of the palate, with apple and pear notes that bring some freshness and contrast to the richness of the whisky. Subtle nutty flavors, like hazelnut or almond, emerge on the palate, adding a layer of complexity.

FINISH: The finish of Twelve Barrels is medium-length, with a pleasing balance between sweetness and spice. The caramel and vanilla sweetness lingers, but it’s balanced by the rye spice that gradually fades. There’s a slight oak dryness, with a light woody aftertaste that keeps the finish clean and refreshing. A mild nutty note might linger, adding to the overall richness of the whisky. The warmth from the spices gently fades, leaving a smooth, well-rounded aftertaste.

Flavor Profile

Almond Apple Caramel Cinnamon Clove Dried Ginger Hazelnut Oak Pear Pepper Toffee Vanilla

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User Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions About Twelve Barrels

What type of whiskey is Twelve Barrels?

Twelve Barrels is a Blend whiskey from Canada. This type is known for its distinctive characteristics and unique production process.

How should I taste Twelve Barrels?

For the best tasting experience, pour Twelve Barrels into a tulip-shaped glass and let it rest for a few minutes. Start by nosing the whiskey to appreciate its aromatic complexity. Take small sips and let the whiskey coat your palate. You may want to add a few drops of water to open up the flavors. We recommend enjoying it neat to fully appreciate its character.

What foods pair well with Twelve Barrels?

Twelve Barrels pairs excellently with aged cheeses, dark chocolate, nuts, and dried fruits. Experiment to find your perfect pairing!

What are the main flavor notes in Twelve Barrels?

The flavor profile of Twelve Barrels features Almond, Apple, Caramel, Cinnamon, Clove. These flavors create a complex and layered tasting experience that appeals to a wide range of whiskey lovers.