Glenfiddich Gran Reserva 21 YO
Glenfiddich Gran Reserva 21 YO, 40%
Glenfiddich Gran Reserva 21 YO
Glenfiddich is a big name, a big brand, and atypically a family own business. William Grant & Sons Ltd own Glenfiddich. On their website they claim, with big letters, that they are the world's most awarded single malt scotch whisky. I like this, for two reasons. The first reason like this is the fact that they actually specify how they can justify this claim (which is more than most companies making such claims would do): "The Glenfiddich range has received more awards since 2000 than any other single malt Scotch whisky in two of the world’s most prestigious competitions, the International Wine & Spirit Competition and the International Spirits Challenge." The second reason I like this claim is that a scotch whisky by definition has to be made in Scotland, which means if you are the most awarded in Scotland then you are by definition also the most awarded in the world. I might be a bit nerdy for finding such things amusing. Anyways...
The Glenfiddich Gran Reserva 21 YO has been matured for 21 years in bourbon casks, then it has received a finish for about 6 months in rum casks.
NOK 1425 (item number 3440001), SEK 1309 (item number 80679).
Nose (21/25): Rich and sweet nose. A clear influence from the rum casks. Rum, demerara sugar, caramel, toffee, and ripe summer fruits. Pineapple juice, slightly sour apples, a bit acidic. Cinnamon and fresh licorice. Cinnamon rolls that have yet to go into the oven.
Taste (20/25): Relatively thin mouthfeel, but there is an element of honey richness here - although the honey has been diluted somewhat. Spicy - mainly pepper; white and black. Oak and honey.
Finish (21/25): Warm and of medium length. The honey is more prevalent here. It feels richer and sweeter on the finish.
Balance (20/25): A well-balanced and pleasant. I would have loved to try this whisky at a higher ABV. I suspect that would have been a completely different experience, with a much fuller mouthfeel and more character overall.
Score (82/100)
Sláinte! - Thomas
