Macallan | $20 to $50

"The initial aroma is sweetish, winey and oaky; aeration allows the aroma to expand to include marzipan, treacle, molasses, honey, vanilla bean, cinnamon and cocoa butter. The palate entry is sweet, creamy and assertive; at midpalate the flavor becomes intensely nutty, buttery and bacon fat-like, with the beginnings of rancio. Remains one of Speyside’s standard-bearer 12 year olds." 90-95 pts.

"Medium golden color. Sweet caramel, banana nut bread, and spice aromas. A round entry leads to a smooth, fruity sweet medium-to full-bodied palate with toffee, layer cake, peppery spice, and a touch of straw-like tannin. Finishes with a nice heather, pepper, and caramel fade."