Glenfarclas The Family Casks Single Malt Scotch: A few weeks back I posted tasting notes on a Glenfarclas 1985 Family Cask; it was a good night and among the expression tasted was this 1975 bottling. I’ll not go into the minutiae about the range, as I’ve done so before previously but what I will say is this. Glenfarclas is an antiquated whisky distillery and I like this. They do things the old-fashioned way and let their Scotch do the talking. Interesting facts: did you know that Glenfarclas was one of the first distilleries to build an all-purpose visitors centre way back in 1973, which included tasting rooms? Or did you know that Glenfarclas have the biggest still pots in Speyside that are heated directly and was the first to release a cask strength Scotch in 1968, later named ‘105’, probably not. This is what I call a traditional whisky distillery that till this day produce some of the most delectable Scotch, in my opinion.
GLENFARCLAS 1975 REFILL SHERRY HOGSHEAD
On the nose: is a strong but equally lovely note of sherry, closely followed by liquorice, marmalade and toffee. After a couple of swirls in the glass emerges a note of mixed fruits, a welcomed meaty note, vanilla and Demerara sugar. Rounding off the nose is a hint of lime zest, cinnamon and oak. On the palate: that sweet sherry nosed is very predominant but some lighter fruity notes start to appear, such as pears and apples that are followed by notes of almonds. Notes of cherries start to emerge, followed by fennel seed and notes of a spicy nature and a slight meaty note. The texture is rather oily and the palate is rounded off by a light, floral note and oak. The finish: long, sweet, with lingering almonds and oak.
The verdict: I’ve said it before and I shall say it again, I’ve yet to taste a Glenfarclas I haven’t enjoyed. This expression embodies the typical Glenfarclas Family Cask traits; its heavily sherried but there is just so much subtle flavour that work well together. At 53.1 % ABV, there was no real need to add water, however, I advise you to do so to unlock those notes available.
Glenfarclas 1975 The Family Casks Single Malt Scotch Whisky can be found online at the Whisky Shop for approximately £865.00. For more information on The Family Casks range, visit the official Glenfarclas website.