Cardhu 12 year Finest single malt miniature. 1990s

Cardhu 12 year Finest single malt miniature. 1990s

Condition: New. Collector-Please note as this is a vintage/rare/limited edition bottle, conditions of bottle/label and liquid level can vary - Some years can vary and as estimations only (example: estimated 1970s/80s).
Lost Distillery/Brand: Discontinued Label.
Fill level: On the shoulder.

Whisky still produced: Yes.
Category: Single malt. 
Distillery: Still producing.
Bottler: Distillery Bottling
Bottling series: Miniature.
Vintage: 
Bottling Year: 1990s.
Stated Age: 12 years old.
Cask type: Not stated.
Strength: 40%vol.
Size: 50 ml.
Colouring: Unknown.
Chill-filtered: Unknown.
Bottle code: Glass bottom code; SD532 UO 4
Country Origin: Scotland.
Region: Speyside.
Market: Worldwide.

The light character of the 12 Year Old Cardhu is an excellent starting point for anyone starting on their whisky journey. Enticing and silky smooth, this is the quintessential Cardhu. Glowing with notes of golden honey and delicate, fruity character. Cardhu comes from one of the oldest of the Speyside distilleries, which have nestled in foothills near the River Spey for 200 years and the Cardhu range is an excellent representation of these Speyside whiskies. Known for its smooth, sweet-natured single malt whisky, the history of Cardhu’s rise to fame is to a large part told in the story of two determined women who were members of the founding family.

Tasting notes;
Appearance/colour; Golden honey.
Nose; At full strength, heady, nose prickle, pear drops and tightly integrated heather, resin and sweet honey-nut notes. Enticing. Intriguing. With a little water, still harmonious but less pronounced, allowing some malt cereal, soft, spicy wood, moorland and faint traces of wood-smoke to appear.
Palate; Well balanced, smooth mouthfeel; short punch, sweet and fresh, then a pronounced drying effect. Moorish. Enjoyable at any time, with little or no water.
Finish: Lingering sweet smoke in the attractive, drying aftertaste.

Distillery History:

Cardhu distillery – previously called Cardow – must be one of the best-located distilleries in Speyside: high on the hills on the north side of the Spey Valley with delightful views to the south. Though they take their name from the Gaelic for Black Rock, the malts of Cardhu have a warmth and cleanliness of taste, often described as silky, making them both elegant and approachable. Perfect for toasting, celebrating and sharing with old and new friends.
The Excise Act of 1824 marked the transformation of John and Helen Cummings’ cottage business into a well-respected local distillery – thanks largely to Helen’s business acumen and skill as a distiller. But it was the wife of Lewis, their son, who established the character and flavour of the malt we know today. Elizabeth Cummings took over the distillery in 1872 after the death of her husband and soon registered Car Dhu as a trademark. She grew production every year and, by 1884, larger premises were needed. With the construction of New Cardhu nearby, Elizabeth laid the foundations for a whisky of global renown.

Cardhu is a historic Speyside distillery that has played a foundational role in both single malt production and the development of blended Scotch whiskies—particularly Johnnie Walker. Known for its smooth, honeyed character, Cardhu is one of the most respected names in Speyside whisky.

Origins & Founding

Founded: 1824

Location: Knockando, Speyside, Scotland

Founders: John and Helen Cumming

Cardhu was originally established as Cardow in 1824 by John Cumming, a former whisky smuggler, shortly after the Excise Act made legal distillation more viable. It is one of the few distilleries where a woman played a central role in its early success—Helen Cumming famously ran the stills and sold whisky to travelers while keeping watch for excisemen.

A Woman-Led Legacy

Helen Cumming’s contribution was legendary. When excise officers would approach, she would quickly hide the equipment and even invite them in for tea while warning neighboring distillers of their approach by raising a red flag. After John passed away, their daughter-in-law Elizabeth Cumming took over in the late 1800s and was instrumental in expanding the distillery.

Link to Johnnie Walker

In 1893, Elizabeth sold the distillery to John Walker & Sons, primarily to supply malt for their rapidly growing Johnnie Walker blends. Cardhu became a cornerstone malt for the brand, contributing to the core character of Johnnie Walker Black Label and other expressions.

Modernization & Production

• The original distillery was completely rebuilt in 1885 on a new site to expand capacity.

• The old buildings were sold to William Grant, who used them to start what would become Glenfiddich Distillery.

• Cardhu was renamed from Cardow to Cardhu (Gaelic for "black rock") in 1981.

• It remains under the ownership of Diageo, who have preserved its status as a flagship single malt brand.

Signature Style

Cardhu is celebrated for its:

• Smooth, honeyed profile

• Notes of orchard fruits, malt, and gentle spice

• Approachable and elegant palate, making it a great “gateway” Speyside malt

Notable Releases

• Cardhu 12 Year Old – flagship single malt with notes of toffee, apple, and spice.

• Cardhu Gold Reserve – richer, with more vanilla and oak.

• Cardhu 18 Year Old – deeper, more mature expression with honey and dried fruit complexity.

• Rare by Nature Editions – part of Diageo’s Special Releases, showcasing unique cask strengths or finishes.

Legacy

Cardhu holds the distinction of being one of the few distilleries founded and shaped by women, and it continues to thrive as a key malt in both blends and single malt markets. Its elegant style, historical relevance, and contribution to global whisky culture make it a true gem of Speyside.

© copyright, Tasting World Ltd. England.