12 years

AnCnoc means 'the hill' in Gaelic—a nod to Knock Hill, which supplies water to the Knockdhu Distillery. Founded in 1894 by John Morrison in Banffshire, the distillery operated under its own name until the early 1990s, when it was rebranded as anCnoc, a deliberate move to strengthen the product's identity.

The 12-year-old expression demonstrates what this distillery does well: deliver genuine flavour and structure at 40% ABV. The nose reveals honey, citrus fruits, and sweet notes of barley husks and warm butter. On the palate, a malty foundation emerges with orchard fruits—apple and pear—touched by ginger, followed by a sustained finish. A subtle smoky undertone adds depth without overwhelming the profile.

Deceptively simple in construction, this whisky punches above its weight in complexity. It's approachable yet rewarding, equally at home with newcomers and experienced drinkers seeking an honest, unfussy dram.