Whether you’re a sherry lover or simply an admirer of expertly crafted single malts, this Linkwood 12-Year-Old PX Finish is not to be missed. Raise your glass to the Houston Scotch Whisky Society for bringing this gem stateside!
Alistair Walker Whisky Co. Infrequent Flyers Linkwood 12-Year-Old PX Finish
Selected and Bottled by the Houston Scotch Whisky Society
Release No. 154 | 55.8% ABV | No Color or Chill Filtration
Nose:
From the first sniff, it’s a feast of aromas. A hint of cinnamon leads into the rich, creamy essence of vanilla bean ice cream—like walking past a Cinnabon in the mall, irresistible and indulgent. Waves of dark, honeyed sweetness, and mixed berry concentrate envelop the senses. The nose deepens with notes of caramel and burnt sugar, reminiscent of a perfectly torched crème brûlée, rounded out by subtle oak and heathered honey. This is a sherry whisky that achieves an extraordinary balance and complexity.
Palate:
Thick and luxurious, the mouthfeel coats the palate with flavors of blueberry syrup atop moist, dark chocolate cake. The PX influence shines through with notes of plum and oak, accented by a dusting of cinnamon and a touch of cocoa. Each sip evolves, offering layers of sweetness, spice, and depth that highlight the harmony between the Linkwood spirit and the PX cask.
Finish:
Medium to long, the finish leaves lingering impressions of juicy berries, dry cocoa, and refined oak. It’s a conclusion that feels both powerful and elegant, compelling you to revisit the dram again and again.
Conclusion:
This inaugural USA-imported expression from the Alistair Walker Whisky Co.’s Infrequent Flyers range is a showstopper. Selected by the Houston Scotch Whisky Society, it sets the bar high for 2025’s single malt releases. A study in single malt integrity and the magic of PX maturation, this whisky is a testament to what careful selection and cask management can achieve.
Score: 92/100
The Big Bang of Sherry Whiskies
This isn’t just a sherry bomb—it’s the Big Bang itself, exploding with flavor, depth, and character. The 12-year-old Linkwood finished in a Pedro Ximénez (PX) hogshead delivers a sensory experience that borders on transcendental.
