Cardhu was once a regular tenant on the shelves of whisky stores here in the US. Then it disappeared for some less than upfront labeling. So I was happy to learn that Cardhu was planning on making a return to the States. In fact, I probably annoyed the hell out of the local whisky store as I would come in several times a week to see if the bottles had come in.
Cardhu 12 ~$40
40%ABV
Color: Medium orange/yellow
Nose: Caramel, sherried sweetness, pleasant maltiness, vanilla cupcake frosting, dark spices – cinnimon and nutmeg, butterscotch candy
Palate: The first sip seems really weak as it is not as full as the nose, balanced and smooth, warming, malty chewiness,sweet grain, dark spices and oak, all the while with a uplifting sweetness lingering
Finish: Short, clean, a little lingering spiciness
Comment: Smooth, not all too complex but it is still interesting, a daily dram that you can relax with, it was my table whisky for some time. Some snooty whisky folk might knock it for being boring and uninspiring but I find it an enjoyable whisky that is an easy sipper. A good gateway whisky for someone just starting on their single malt journey. And a great value for the price!