Old Pulteney 12 Years Old

Old Pulteney 12 Year Old is the core expression from the most northerly mainland distillery in Scotland — Pulteney Distillery in Wick, Caithness — and the standard introduction to the distillery’s distinctive maritime, honeyed, and coastal character.

Old Pulteney is known as ‘the Maritime Malt’ for good reason: the Wick coastal location, the unorthodox flat-topped wash still, and the distillery’s water source all contribute to the characteristic sea air, brine, and coastal sweetness that defines the house style. The 12-year draws on American oak ex-bourbon maturation to produce vanilla, honey, and fresh fruit alongside the maritime backbone. Browse all Scotch whisky at Wooden Cork.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Coastal and honeyed — sea air, brine, honey, vanilla, and fresh barley
• Palate: Smooth and maritime — honey, citrus, light oak spice, and a subtle coastal salinity
• Finish: Medium-long with lingering honey and a clean maritime fade

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Old Pulteney’s still shape unusual?

The wash still at Pulteney has a flat top (the traditional onion-shaped or lantern-shaped neck was removed at some point in the distillery’s history to fit the still house) rather than the conventional tapered neck. This unusual shape affects the reflux during distillation, contributing to the distinctive Pulteney spirit character.

Is Old Pulteney 12 a good starting point for coastal Scotch?

Yes — it is one of the best introductions to the maritime Highland style. The coastal character is clearly present but approachable, making it a good bridge between accessible Speyside and the more assertive maritime character of Islay expressions.