Back in 2013 Tullibardine launched a completely revamped range with a new entry level bottling, named Tullibardine Sovereign. Now to name a NAS entry level expression ‘Sovereign’ is a pretty bold move, at least in my opinion. Just let me put it this way: When that one is already so excellent, than why on earth should I even consider to purchase one of the higher priced versions?

Facts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name:	Tullibardine Sovereign
Age:	NAS
Category:	Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Distillery:	Tullibardine
Cask Type:	First Fill Ex-Bourbon Casks
Strength:	43.0% Vol.
Colored:	Yes
Chill Filtered:	No

Nose

For only 43% ABV mind-boggling alcoholic in the nose. After some time I can spot some light undertones of white fruits – apples, white grapes and plenty of pears. Joined by a subtle sweetness. However the alcohol remains present at all times.

Taste

Strong alcoholic. Then a very gentle sweetish fruity touch that gets buried under a wave of bitter oak immediately.

Finish

Long. Very spicy oak. Leaves a alcoholic aftertaste.

Overall

Very poorly integrated alcohol and overloaded with oak. This single malt is everything but ‘sovereign’ – ‘immature’ and ‘imbalanced’ would be more appropriate terms.

Score: 66 / 100