Cardhu distillery sits on the banks of the River Spey at Knockando, in the heart of Speyside. It was founded in 1824 by John and Helen Cumming, with Helen earning a legendary reputation as the "smuggler queen" for tipping off her fellow illicit distillers whenever excise officers were in the area. Today the distillery is part of Diageo's stable and its spirit forms a key component of the Johnnie Walker blends.
This 12 Year Old expression is matured for a minimum of twelve years in oak casks, predominantly seasoned ex-bourbon American oak, giving a mellow, approachable character that has made Cardhu one of Speyside's most popular single malts.
On the nose there is good body and sweetness, with streaks of gentle smoke alongside apple peel and bruised pear. The palate is smooth and rounded, with a gentle sweetness and a whisper of soft peat. The finish is long and dry, with a malty touch of peat lingering at the end.
A well-balanced, easy-drinking single malt, Cardhu 12 Year Old is an ideal introduction to Speyside whisky and works equally well neat, on the rocks, or as the base for a whisky highball.
