I quite like the Glenrothes, but sadly they have been bottling their OBs at low ABV, using Caramel, and it’s rather sad to see their splendid malt ending its life that way. Of course older vintages are nicer,but also quite expensive. Here’s a fine example of how good an 18 Cask sample (at CS) indie can be. This one was bottled by the Maltman and was waiting patiently for a few months now, and it’s about time it made its entrance. so here we go:
Glenrothes 18 (The Maltman), 50.7%,cask 
7608 , ~85 Eur , 336 btl
Nose: Quite floral with hints of caramel, malt and a bit of butterscotch. Fresh.
Palate: Thick and rich wood with bits of pepper. Caramel. Dough. Hint of mint and then fruity stuff. Quite peppery and getting sweeter as time goes by. A lovely mouth feel to it. really nice.
Finish: Hint of smoke, spicy wood and honeyed sweetness with lingering pepper.
A very nice Glenrothes. With a peppery edge. Very enjoyable, and a fine example to the wonders of cask strength bottling. NCF,No color, that’s the way we geeks like our malt! way to go.
Score: 89/100
Official sample provided by Meadowside blending Co.