We’ve posted tasting notes on pretty much every GlenDronach expression from their core range, of which included the 8, 12, 15 (discontinued now continued), 18, 21 and even a special 25-year-old expression. 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 dates, raisins, bitter oranges, tobacco leaf and mint dark chocolate. These are closely followed by notes of vanilla, almonds, with peppery oak, spices, cinnamon and white pepper. More notes in the form of steeped apricots and red blackcurrants start to emerge and are nicely rounded-off by notes of maple syrup, some floral and green herbaceous notes. On the palate: those date and dried fruit notes are ever-present, along with touches cocoa, vanilla and stewed dark fruits. After a few swirls in the glass, notes of dried mango and papaya, surrounded by hints of lemon peel, cinnamon and warm peppery spices start to emerge. Rounding-off the palate is a hint of shortbread, marzipan, tobacco and blackcurrants. The finish: is long, smooth and sweet, with lingering muted spices, nuttiness and a leathery note.
The verdict: This 23-year-old single cask GlenDronach aged in a Pedro Ximénez Puncheon cask, 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 52.5%, 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 1995 23 Year Old Single Cask Scotch Whisky (Cask #3040) can be purchased online at any well-stocked whisky shop for approx. £230.
For more information on The Glendronach , visit the official website.
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