Review: Gibson's Finest 12-Year-Old Canadian Whisky

On November 15, 2009 I completed one of my very early Canadian Whisky Reviews. It was for the Gibson’s Finest 12 Year Old Whisky. Recently, I was sent a new sample bottle by the brand’s media company (Jesson + Company), and I have decided to revisit this Gibson’s Whisky to provide a more rounded out review, and to see if perhaps the blend has undergone any noticeable changes since my earlier review.

In 2002, the Gibson’s Finest brand was purchased by William Grant & Sons who acquired the brand to strengthen their position in the Canadian spirits marketplace. William Grant & Sons has moved the production of Gibson’s Whisky from the Schenley plant in Valleyfield, Quebec to the Hiram Walker Distillery in Windsor, Ontario. It is this move from one distillery to another which causes me to believe the taste profile may have changed recently. I do not believe any change would have significantly altered the taste profile, but I admit I am curious:

Here is an excerpt from the new review:

“…The initial nose from the glass is of honey and fruit filled rye spices, some light butterscotch, and a vague dry oakiness. As the glass breathes, ripened fields of rye grain and corn seem to waft up out of the glass. …”

Here is the full review:

Review: Gibson’s Finest 12-Year-Old Whisky

As well as part of the review I have returned to a classic cocktail, the Old Fashioned Cocktail, which tastes just marvellous when made with Gibson’s Finest.!

Please enjoy the review!

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