Dram Review: Old Pulteney 35 Years Old

[42.5%・35 Years Old・Bottled in 2014・Official Bottling・Limited Release]

Nose:

Definitely some age from the sherry influence on the nose, it’s quite subtle though with the faintest hints of raisins and softly toasted almonds.
Musky orange blossom and pear nectar with a tiny pinch of sea salt. Black pepper and nibbles of dark chocolate.

Palate & Finish:

Initially it’s creamy on the palate and slightly salty. Not unexpected out of an offering from Wick. Then slowly come the jammy pears and plums with a hint of vanilla. The raisin note is there but it is not overly sweet. The spices are present and they cradle the tastebuds instead of seeking to excite, tender but they last well into the finish.

A soft hint of cinnamon in the finish with a delicate whiff of smoke in the background.
The woodiness is not too dominant despite its age and in fact it complements well in a mesmerising manner.
Having this dram at the end of the day is how I imagine getting a soft head massage from a loving wife would be like. Virtue and modesty do enlighten her charms.

Thoughts:

A.K.A. “Virtue and modesty do enlighten her charms”

To me, it’s all about the experience. Sometimes I get to spend some time with a dram that doesn’t come across very often and it leaves a deep impression. I just count myself lucky when these moments happen.

☆☆ [Highly Recommended]

-Nicholas