This whisky forms part of the recently launched core range from the picturesque Speyside distillery of Tormore. The range represents the first permanent releases from the distillery since it was purchased from Chivas Brothers by Elixir Distillers in 2022. The trio of single malts have been created by Oliver Chilton, the Head Blender at Elixir Distillers. Tormore Timeless has been aged primarily in first-fill and re-fill ex-bourbon barrels, designed to enhance the fruity and floral characteristics of Tormore’s new make spirit.
Tormore was founded in 1958 by Schenley International, with production beginning in 1960. The distillery has a long history of producing single malts from blends including famous names such as Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal and Long John. It has extraordinary architecture and was designed by Sir Albert Richardson. He was former President of The Royal Academy and a fan of Georgian architecture. He also built Tormore village next to the distillery. This includes worker cottages, village hall, and a curling rink. The owners are Elixir Distillers and annual capacity is 3.2 million litres.
The no age statement Timeless is joined by 12 Years Old and 16 Years old expressions. They are available via selected specialist UK retailers now, with a wider world release later in the year. The trio of whiskies will be joined by two further releases – Tormore 18- and 21 Year Olds – in the range during 2027. Timeless is released at 43% and will cost £42/ US$56 per bottle.
Our Tasting Notes
The colour is pale gold and the nose is sweet, fruity and bright. Aromas of red apple and green pear lead the way and are quickly joined by vanilla, heather honey and hints of creamed coconut and fresh gooseberry. Further aromas of white chocolate, ripe apricot and crème brûlée are also evident. Hints of candied lemon peel, green tea and honeysuckle sit in the background.
On the palate this whisky is soft, elegant and fruity. Juicy red apple and crisp green pear again hit first alongside notes of vanilla sugar and heather honey. This tends more towards a combination of icing sugar and muscovado with time. The vanilla evolves to become more custard-like – think of good patisserie creme anglais especially – and this, combined with some fresh coconut, adds to the soft and creamy texture.
There is a hint of marzipan in the background, along with some delicate baking spice – imagine cinnamon and mace in particular. The lemon note from the nose is again on show, but is more reminiscent of lemon curd now. Hints of cocoa powder and jasmine tea linger underneath and are joined late on by a further hint of freshly sawn oak.
The finish is of decent length and feels a little more biscuity and chocolate-like than before. This is especially true on the bold fruit begin to fade. This also brings out more oakiness and elevates the elegant baking spices.
What’s The Verdict?
This is a superb whisky and one that shows how good ‘no age statement’ single malts can be. It exhibits classic Speyside fruitiness and other characteristics, all balanced by sympathetic casks and maturation. This is an excellent entry point into the new range of whiskies from Tormore and would be an great choice to show someone the traditional Speyside style. Very promising things are happening at Tormore under the stewardship of Elixir Distillers, so check this one out. Especially given the nice price.
