Murray McDavid Benchmark Linkwood 2012 8 Year Old (46%)

This is an 8 year old Linkwood single malt from Speyside, bottled by Murray McDavid in its Benchmark range. It was distilled in 2012 and bottled in 2021 at 46% ABV. The whisky spent six years in ex-bourbon hogsheads, then two more years finishing in eight very active first-fill Koval bourbon casks. It is described as a small batch bottling with a rich, fruity character. The nose is creamy, with vanilla, caramel and popcorn. On the palate come tropical fruit, sweet oak spices and vanilla, and the finish brings orange, brown sugar and soft malt.