Tomintoul 10-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a remarkable expression from the “Gentle Dram” of Speyside, known for its smooth and approachable character. In this article, we’ll delve into the rich history of Tomintoul, explore the tasting notes of its 10-year-old offering, and suggest some delectable food pairings and cocktails to elevate your whisky experience at home.
Tomintoul Distillery, founded in 1964, is nestled in the Speyside region of Scotland, an area celebrated for producing some of the world’s finest single malts. The distillery takes its name from the nearby village of Tomintoul, the highest village in the Highlands, situated in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. The region’s pure air and crystal-clear water from the Ballantruan Spring contribute to the distinctive quality of Tomintoul whiskies.
Despite being a relatively young distillery compared to others in Scotland, Tomintoul has established a strong reputation for crafting gentle, smooth, and easy-drinking whiskies, often described as the “Gentle Dram.” The distillery’s commitment to traditional methods and high-quality ingredients ensures that every bottle of Tomintoul whisky is a reflection of Speyside’s heritage and craftsmanship.
Q&A with Master Distiller, Robert Fleming
Q. What makes Tomintoul single malt special and stand out from other Scottish
whisky?
A: Tomintoul single malt stands out for its exceptional smoothness and balance, which have earned it the nickname “the gentle dram”. Our whisky is crafted in the heart of Speyside, an area renowned for producing some of the world’s finest single malts. What makes Tomintoul truly unique is the purity of our water, sourced from the Ballantruan Spring, and our meticulous distillation process that preserves the delicate flavours. The result is a whisky that is both approachable and complex, with layers of fruit, floral notes, and a creamy, mellow finish. This gentleness, combined with our commitment to traditional methods and the pristine environment surrounding the distillery, creates a single malt that is distinctive and universally appealing.
Q. What has been the biggest milestone during your tenure as custodian of the
Tomintoul brand?
A: There have been many personal milestones and achievements which have been reached over the past 34 years at Tomintoul but seeing how our Tomintoul whiskies have developed since Angus Dundee Distillers ownership has been really special. It is especially pleasing when you see our Tomintoul whiskies in shops around the world. We have won multiple prestigious awards, which is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. This year alone, we have been awarded the Boisdale Life Whisky Producer the Year Award, gold at the International Wine & Spirits Competition, two gold medals at the Scotch Whisky Masters, double gold and gold medals at the International Spirits Challenge and won gold at the world-renowned San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Tasting Notes
The Tomintoul 10-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is an excellent introduction to the distillery’s range. This whisky is known for its light and delicate profile, making it a versatile choice for both newcomers and seasoned whisky enthusiasts.
Appearance: Pale gold, with a bright and clear hue that invites you to take a sip.
Nose: The aroma is soft and inviting, with notes of green apples, pears, and a hint of vanilla. Subtle floral tones, alongside a touch of malted barley, contribute to a balanced and fragrant bouquet.
Palate: On the palate, the whisky is smooth and mellow. The fruity notes from the nose carry through, with an added layer of creamy toffee and a light hint of spice. There’s a delicate sweetness that is well-rounded and not overpowering.
Finish: The finish is clean and slightly warming, with a gentle oakiness and a lingering hint of sweetness.
Cocktail Recipe Idea
While Tomintoul 10-Year-Old is best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water, it can also be a fantastic base for whisky cocktails that highlight its gentle and fruity profile.
SPEYSIDE SOUR
Ingredients:
- 50ml Tomintoul 10-Year-Old
- 25ml fresh lemon juice
- 15ml honey syrup (1:1 honey to water)
- 1 egg white
- Ice
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker without ice and shake vigorously to emulsify the egg white.
- Add ice and shake again until well-chilled.
- Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with a lemon twist.
TOMINTOUL OLD FASHIONED
Ingredients:
- 60ml Tomintoul 10-Year-Old
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel
- Ice
Instructions:
- Muddle the sugar cube and bitters in a glass until the sugar dissolves.
- Add Tomintoul 10-Year-Old and a large ice cube.
- Stir gently and garnish with a twist of orange peel.
Food Pairings
Tomintoul 10-Year-Old’s mild and balanced character makes it an excellent companion to a variety of dishes. Here are some food pairing ideas that complement the whisky’s flavours:
Smoked Salmon with Dill Cream: The subtle smokiness of the salmon enhances the whisky’s light fruity notes, while the creamy dill sauce adds a rich texture that pairs beautifully with the whisky’s smoothness.
Grilled Chicken with Herb Butter: The mild flavours of grilled chicken seasoned with herb butter allow the whisky’s delicate sweetness and gentle oak notes to shine.
Apple and Pear Tart: A dessert that mirrors the fruity profile of Tomintoul 10-Year-Old. The buttery pastry and caramelized fruit filling echo the whisky’s toffee and orchard fruit flavours.
Tomintoul 10-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a versatile and elegant expression from one of Speyside’s distinguished distilleries. Whether sipped neat, in a cocktail or paired with carefully chosen dishes, this whisky is sure to provide a memorable tasting experience. Its gentle, approachable nature makes it a perfect choice for any occasion, whether you’re new to the world of single malts or a seasoned aficionado.
