We’ve highlighted the GlenDronach distillery before, which is Located in Speyside, built in 1825 and was originally led by one James Allardice. GlenDronach are well-known for producing some of the most beautiful sweet sherried style Scotch Whisky on the market today, largely owed in part to a gentleman we only spoke about last week: Billy Walker. While GlenDronach has made a name for itself, it has long been the key to Teacher’s blends. As mentioned before, GlenDronach are very well know for producing Scotch matured in ex-sherry Oloroso & Pedro Ximenez casks, which give rich, sweet and creamy notes. The 12yo ‘Original’ is a richly sherried single malt, matured for at least 12 years in a combination of the finest Spanish Pedro Ximenez and Oloroso sherry casks. Non-chill filtered, of natural colour, the GlenDronach 12 year old Original and known for being a sweet, creamy dram.
On the nose: there are initial notes of pineapples, pears, burnt toffee, cherries and vanilla. This is closely followed by enticing notes of sherbet, a light waft of spices, candyfloss and cinnamon. Rounding off the nose are notes of stem ginger, raspberries and madeira cake, with a lovely backdrop of cream. On the palate: those burnt toffee notes nosed are ever-present, followed up by a luxurious dark chocolate ganache. Theres notes of mixed fruits, tobacco, raisins and a nutty note of almonds that start to emerge. Theres also notes of spices, an appealing meaty note, with a much welcomed creamy texture. The palate is nicely rounded off by Demerara sugar, cardamom, an oily note and a whisper of apricots. The finish: is medium/long, dry, with sweet mixed fruits, lingering nuttiness and oak.
The verdict: This GlenDronach 12-year-old scotch is something rather special. While the 8yo Hielan’ makes for a great entry dram, this 12yo is an entry point into the exquisite sherried scotch from GlenDronach. With a seductive array of notes that just keep unfolding that have been finely balanced, this 12yo ‘Original’ GlenDronach is one that should be in every whisky lovers cabinet. With a ABV of 43%, it doesn’t require any water in my opinion. Though if you feel the need to, then do so until its just right for you.
GlenDronach ‘Original’ 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is available in-store from The Whisky Shop, for approximately £45. For more information on The ‘Original’ 12 Year Old , visit the official GlenDronach website.
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