GlenDronach are well known these days for producing some delectable single malt whisky, however, something that has always intrigued us is their Single Cask expressions – no two are the same. They are all truly delectable drops in their own right but their single cask selection is something rather special. Each year, Master Distiller, Rachel Barrie, specially selects a handful of individual casks from the warehouse at GlenDronach distillery, to be bottled as a ‘Limited Release’. With maturing whiskies that date back as far as 1968, there is an array of cask selections available: from hogsheads to puncheons and butts. With such a vast selection at Rachel Barrie’s disposal, each and every cask lends some remarkable varying characteristics that have developed during maturation.
On the nose: there is a warm invitation of plums, musk, dates, cherries, tobacco leaf and marmalade. These are closely followed by notes of vanilla, with peppery oak, spices, cinnamon and cloves. More notes in the form of treacle and mulled wine start to emerge and are nicely rounded-off by notes of leather, some floral and walnuts. On the palate: notes of stewed dark fruits are ever-present, along with hints of maraschino cherries, vanilla and prunes. After a few swirls in the glass, notes of mandarins and marzipan are surrounded by hints of plums, cinnamon and warm peppery spices. Rounding-off the palate is a hint of sultanas, pomelo, tobacco leaf and dark chocolate. The finish: is long, smooth and sweet, with lingering muted spices, mellow oak and an earthy note.
The verdict: This 27-year-old single cask GlenDronach aged in a Oloroso Sherry Puncheon, is just as special as the previous single cask expression we tasted, perhaps even more so. It has such flavour, as well as texture, which lends to the overall experience. It is so full of depth and fruitful, sweet flavours but has enough subtle spices and lighter notes that truly complement this drop. With an ABV of 53.7%, for me it doesn’t require any water. Though if you feel the need to, then do so until it’s just right for you.
This GlenDronach 1993 27 Year Old Single Cask Scotch Whisky (Cask #7276) can be purchased online or in-store at any well-stocked whisky shop for approx. £450. For more information visit glendronachdistillery.com.
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