Tomatin 12 yo (2008/2021), The French Collection – Monbazillac, 46%

Introduction

Tomatin 12 Year Old Monbazillac Finish is a distinguished expression from the distillery’s innovative “French Collection” series, showcasing how traditional Highland whisky character can be transformed through creative European wine cask finishing.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Scottish barley and the pure, soft water from Alt-na-Frith, the spring that has supplied Tomatin Distillery since 1897
• Distillation process: Double distilled in Tomatin’s traditional copper pot stills, known for producing a lighter, fruitier spirit
• Maturation: Initially matured in traditional oak casks for 12 years (distilled in 2008), then transferred to Monbazillac sweet wine casks from southwestern France for a finishing period before bottling in 2021
• Special techniques: Non-chill filtered and bottled at 46% ABV to preserve the full range of natural flavors and oils from the unique Monbazillac cask influence

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Honey-coated apricots, vanilla custard, and orange marmalade with subtle notes of toasted oak and delicate florals enhanced by the sweet wine influence
• Palate: Rich and honeyed with layers of orchard fruits, caramelized pears, and golden raisins, complemented by sweet spices, nougat, and the distinctive Monbazillac sweetness
• Finish: Medium to long with lingering notes of honeyed fruit, sweet baking spices, and a gentle oak dryness that balances the wine-influenced sweetness

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (15-18°C) to fully appreciate the complexity
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass or Glencairn to concentrate the aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of spring water to open up the complex wine cask influences
• Food pairings: Pairs excellently with honey-drizzled desserts, rich cheeses like Roquefort, or dark chocolate with orange notes

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 46% ABV
• Bottle size: 70cl
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Highlands
• Certifications/Awards: Part of Tomatin’s acclaimed French Collection series, which has received multiple international accolades for its innovative cask management

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Tomatin 12 Year Old Monbazillac Finish represents a masterful fusion of Highland whisky tradition and French wine sophistication, creating a flavor profile rarely encountered in Scottish single malts.

As part of the limited French Collection series, only a finite number of these bottles have been produced, making each one increasingly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Master Distiller Graham Eunson’s expertise in selecting these particular Monbazillac casks showcases Tomatin’s industry-recognized skill in innovative cask management and finishing techniques.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Whisky experts and connoisseurs have consistently praised The French Collection for its bold experimentation and exceptional quality, positioning it as a benchmark for wine cask finished Scotch whisky.

Collectors who have invested in previous Tomatin special releases have continued to seek out each new expression, acknowledging the distillery’s commitment to consistent quality and innovation.

The French Collection series has garnered significant attention in international whisky competitions, reinforcing Tomatin’s reputation as a forward-thinking distillery that honors tradition while embracing creative maturation techniques.

From Highland Distillery to You

By sharing this exclusive expression with whisky enthusiasts, Tomatin offers a rare opportunity to experience the fruits of their cross-cultural experimentation and decades of distilling expertise.

The approachable yet sophisticated character of this whisky reflects the warm, welcoming nature of both the Highland distillery and the sun-drenched vineyards of southwestern France where the Monbazillac wine originates.

In choosing this bottle, you join a community of discerning whisky lovers who appreciate how Tomatin bridges Scottish and French craftsmanship – don’t miss your chance to experience this remarkable Highland single malt with its distinctive French accent.