Aberlour 10 Forest Reserve Review – Speyside’s Bright, Forest-Born Malt

Following our recent look at the Aberlour 12 Year Old Double Cask Matured  I wanted to explore the distillery’s younger expression – the Aberlour 10 Forest Reserve. It’s lighter, greener and more youthful, but it carries the same unmistakable Speyside warmth that made the 12 such a fan favourite.

If Aberlour 12 feels like a fireside dram on a winter evening, Forest Reserve is a walk through the woods on a crisp autumn day.

 A Whisky Rooted in the Forest

The Aberlour 10 Forest Reserve was launched as part of the brand’s sustainability initiative. For every bottle sold, Aberlour supports native woodland restoration across Speyside in partnership with the Forests of Scotland programme. It’s a genuine link between the whisky in the glass and the land that nurtures it.

Maturation follows Aberlour’s hallmark approach:

• initial ageing in ex-bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks,

• then a finish in French Limousin oak, a type of wood better known in Cognac.

That final stage adds a slightly spicy, woody dryness which sets Forest Reserve apart from its older sibling, the 12 Year Old Double Cask Matured.

Nose – Orchard Fruit and Honey

The aroma opens with green apple, pear and honey, a touch brighter than the 12. Next come vanilla, toffee and light oak spice, followed by soft notes of almond and cinnamon.Give it a few minutes and subtle sherry fruit emerges underneath – a gentle reminder of the Oloroso casks at its core.

Overall, the nose is clean, floral and refreshing – classic Speyside elegance with a youthful twist.

Palate – Fresh Fruit, Sweet Malt and French Oak Spice

The first sip is sweet and lively. Honey and caramel lead the way, joined by juicy pear and orange peel. Mid-palate brings toasted oak, nutmeg and a hint of sherry richness from the Oloroso influence.

The French oak adds texture, giving a light dryness that balances the sweetness. Compared to Aberlour 12, Forest Reserve feels leaner and more vibrant, less dessert-like but every bit as enjoyable.

With a few drops of water, more orchard fruit opens up – apple crumble, vanilla cream and a hint of shortbread. It’s approachable, friendly and easy to appreciate neat or with a splash of water.

Finish – Short to Medium, Warm and Dry

The finish is medium in length with gentle oak spice, honey and fading fruit.

There’s a touch of dry wood and nutty warmth from the Limousin oak, which gives it character even at its relatively young age.

Aberlour 10 vs Aberlour 12

Tasting the Forest Reserve 10 beside the 12 Year Old Double Cask Matured highlights how small changes in maturation can completely shift a whisky’s personality.

• Aberlour 12 leans toward rich sherry sweetness, full of raisin and cinnamon-apple warmth.

• Aberlour 10 Forest Reserve feels fresher and lighter, focusing on fruit, vanilla and gentle spice.

Both share that Aberlour depth, but the 10 shows a more modern, youthful edge – ideal for those who prefer balance over richness.

Verdict

The Aberlour 10 Forest Reserve is proof that age isn’t everything. It’s an approachable Speyside single malt with enough flavour to satisfy regular drinkers while still welcoming newcomers to the brand.

The combination of bourbon, sherry and French oak creates an engaging mix of sweetness, spice and freshness, and the environmental connection adds genuine purpose.

Rating: 77 out of 100

A bright, well-crafted Speyside malt that complements the Aberlour 12 beautifully.

Watch the Full Video Review

Watch the full Whisky Clan tasting and discussion of Aberlour 10 Forest Reserve below:

If you haven’t yet seen the Aberlour 12 review, it’s the perfect companion piece – two whiskies, one Speyside story.

FAQ – Aberlour 10 Forest Reserve

Is Aberlour 10 Forest Reserve a single malt?

Yes. It is a Speyside single malt Scotch whisky, distilled and bottled by Aberlour Distillery.

What is the difference between Aberlour 10 Forest Reserve and Aberlour 12 Double Cask Matured?

The 10 is younger, finished in French Limousin oak, and delivers lighter fruit and oak-spice notes.The 12 uses only bourbon and sherry casks, creating a richer, sweeter profile.

What casks are used for Aberlour 10 Forest Reserve?

Ex-bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks, with a final finish in French oak.

Is Aberlour 10 Forest Reserve available worldwide?

It is widely available in the UK (in some shops) and EU markets, including France, and appears periodically in travel retail.

What food or pairings suit Aberlour 10 Forest Reserve?

It pairs beautifully with honey-glazed nuts, baked apple desserts, or mild cheeses such as Brie or Gouda.