We have tasted our fair share of Glenfarclas from The Family Cask, why just a few weeks ago we posted tasting notes on an expression from 1965. Up to now, we’ve tasted the 1995, 1985 and 1975, and now we are posting tasting notes on this 1984. I’ll not go into the minutiae about the range, as I’ve done so before but what I will say is this – Glenfarclas is an antiquated whisky distillery which is something i admire greatly. 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? This is what I call a traditional whisky distillery that till this day produce some of the most delectable Scotch, in my opinion, however this expression from the family cask was something I’d never experienced before.
GLENFARCLAS 1984 4TH FILL HOGSHEAD
On the nose: are welcoming tropical notes of bananas, coconuts, vanilla and a meaty, earthy note. These initial notes are closely followed by hints of raisins, currants and marzipan, coupled with candy and strawberries. Some spices start to emerge in the form of cinnamon and turmeric, followed by a note of Demerara sugar – a note we’ve become accustomed to with Glenfarclas. There is a strong suggestion of lemon zest, oatmeal and salted caramel floating around on the nose. Though, rounding-off the nose are notes of butterscotch, a floral note and hint of white chocolate. On the palate: those tropical notes of bananas and coconut are present, intriguingly followed by a waft of vanilla, mint, liquorice and a herbaceous note. Notes of brown sugar, followed by butterscotch and that meaty note start to emerge. As well as oatmeal, cinnamon, black pepper, and turmeric, which form an overall counter balance to the sweet palate. Rounding-off the palate is a hint of lemon zest and floral notes. The finish: medium, sweet, with lingering herbaceous and spicy notes.
The verdict: There is no doubt that I enjoy a good Glenfarclas expression from the Family Cask range, however, this dram is somewhat different to what I’ve experienced before. I’m so used to getting a big bold whack of sherry but this dram was overall, more delicate and slow, when it came to unearthing the plethora of notes on offer. There were tropical notes instead that gently morphed into something more familiar, creating an overall balanced dram. That said, it is perhaps not one of my favourites but it does offering a little variation. At 47.1 % ABV, there was no real need to add water, however, I recommend you to let it breathe for 5 – 7 minutes to experience all the notes available.
Glenfarclas 1984 The Family Casks Single Malt Scotch Whisky can be found online at the Whisky Shop for approximately £4,460. For more information on The Family Casks range, visit the official Glenfarclas website.
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