Ancnoc 12YO 700ml

Ancnoc 12YO is a Highland single malt Scotch whisky from Knockdhu Distillery in Aberdeenshire, sold under the brand name anCnoc. It is matured for 12 years in ex-bourbon casks, carries no peat smoke, and is bottled at 40% ABV.

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Knockdhu Distillery was founded in 1894 in the village of Knock, and the anCnoc name comes from the Gaelic for the hill that sits nearby. The 12 Year Old is the core of the range: a light, fresh style that shows off the distillery spirit rather than heavy sherry or smoke. Twelve years in bourbon casks give it honeyed sweetness and a soft vanilla layer without hiding the fruit. Alongside it, anCnoc also makes peated releases, so this is the bottle to pick if you want the clean, unsmoked side of the distillery.

anCnoc’s own tasting notes:

Nose: Honey first, then lemon cutting through, with vanilla in the background.

Palate: Green apple up front, a zesty lift, then gentle spice that keeps going.

It is a natural fit for anyone moving from blends to single malt, or for drinkers who prefer a fresh, fruity dram over a smoky or sherried one. Serve it neat in a nosing glass, then try a few drops of water to bring the citrus forward. It also works lightly chilled in warm weather. On the table, pair it with oysters, smoked salmon, a mild goat’s cheese or a lemon tart.