So, we come to the end of our Glendronach time, and saving the best for last, so to speak. This one was specially selected by Master Distiller Billy Walker from some of the oldest and most unique Oloroso casks at GlenDronach. Only 1013 bottles were made, and bottled at Cask strength. I was really looking forward to trying that, and measure how it compares to the younger expressions reviewed so far. So, let’s find out how this one compares to them, Shall we?
GlenDronach ‘Grandeur’ , 31 yo , 45.8% ABV (Cask strength) ,1013 bottles , £347 ( TWE)
Colour: Dark mahogany
Nose: Oh my. That’s beautiful sherry maturation for you. Starting with sweet dried fruit compote , luscious prunes and dates and none of the balsamic one could expect from a long sherry maturation. Quite fresh , for a 31-year-old. Ample wood but not exaggerated , combining well with Demerara sugar and a pinch of cinnamon In a word : perfect.
Palate: Thick viscous stuff almost chewable. Sweet entry on the dried fruit followed by roasted coffee, cocoa beans , some faint smoky note on the background
Finish : Bitter espresso , crushed coffee beans.
Bottom line :
well-balanced and not too woody for its age. Great nose , even better than the palate.
Score : 91/100
Again, main thanks to the folks at Glendronach (Don,Kerry) Who helped us make GlenDronach time on Whisky Israel happen.
Slainte!
I tried this in November at the Whisky Live Festival in Johannesburg. I remember it being very impressive. I think I would give it a slightly lower score though, maybe a 87 or so for me.
We are both fortunate to have tried this release! Nice notes.
Indeed.
I liked it quite a bit hence 91. 87 is very good too 😉