Linkwood 1957 12 Year Old Official for Giaccione

Official cask strength bottlings from this era are rarely encountered. Linkwood LINKWOOD 1957-1969 12yo OB for GIACCONE 56.9% The aroma opens slowly with a pleasant dusty oldness, ripe oranges, strong barley notes, faint earthy and peaty elements, and tea. On the palate, it begins smoothly and expands powerfully with a rich flavor of peach, orange, and honey sweetness. It has depth, a thick body, strong presence, and a long-lasting finish with intense umami. 【Very Good/Excellent】 This official Linkwood 1957, 12-year-old bottling was produced for Giaccione. As it was during the era when Samorini imported Linkwood, this bottling carries dual names of Samorini and Giaccione. This would certainly excite collectors who appreciate such nuances. Though it appears to have been bottled in 1969, official cask strength bottlings from this era are exceptionally rare. The aroma has an old-world character, but I find it within a quite pleasant range. Ripe oranges and tea dominate with strong barley notes, while earthy and peaty elements add depth but without excessive complexity. On the palate, it is smoother than expected from its strength and aroma, expanding powerfully with a rich, aromatic flavor. Similar to the aroma, the barley notes are strong and umami-rich with a satisfying chewiness, but it is not one-dimensional—flavors of peach and honey also emerge. It feels like multiple heavy doors slowly opening one after another. The body is substantial, deeply flavorful, and powerful. The finish lingers with a nuanced umami that seeps into the tongue, creating an enduring impression. I believe this malt is far more appealing after drinking than its aroma suggests. Truly remarkable. This bottle was kindly provided by Walku Hall in Takada, Nakano. #Linkwood (LINKWOOD)