Dewar's 12 Year Old uses the double aging process pioneered by A.J. Cameron, Dewar's master blender in the early twentieth century. After blending the component whiskies, the blend is returned to oak casks for a further period of maturation — a process designed to marry the individual components into a more harmonious whole. The core malt is Aberfeldy, whose honeyed character defines the Dewar's house style.
The double aging does its work effectively. The blend is smoother and more integrated than many competitors at this price, with a rounded warmth that speaks of time spent in good wood. The Aberfeldy honey is the dominant note, providing a sweet, malty backbone that the grain whisky fills out with cereal sweetness and clean body.
Dewar's 12 is a solid, well-made blended Scotch that offers genuine quality at its price point. The twelve-year age statement and the double aging process give it an authority that younger, un-aged blends cannot match. It will not excite whisky enthusiasts, but as an everyday blend for mixing or casual sipping, it delivers honest quality and consistent character. The kind of blend that reminds you why Scotch whisky conquered the world.
