Glenfiddich Single Malt Scotch Whisky, 15 Years Old
40% ABV/80 Proof
$40 to $50
Available worldwide
Website
What the Distillery Says:
At fifteen years, rich fruit and notes of spice pervade this characterful single malt. Made using a process unique amongst Scotch whisky distillers it is matured in three types of oak cask: sherry, bourbon, and new oak before being married in our unique Solera vat. This vat is always kept at least half full creating a whisky with deliciously harmonious flavors.
What Richard Says:
Nose: Pears jump out at me followed by pine resin and hard apple cider.
Palate: Very smooth and woody. It’s almost too smooth. I don’t get a lot of defining characteristics.
Finish: Crisp, dry, and very short.
Comments: I would recommend this to fans of Johnnie Walker Gold looking to switch to single malts and save some coin. I find this rather bland. If you’re a new scotch drinker and can’t handle this then scotch may not be for you. There’s a little more to it than the 12 year old but nothing that really makes me want to keep it around.
Rating: Average
Wow, I’m a little surprised by your tasting notes on this one, almost makes me wonder if we had the same whisky, or if there is a lot of variation between batches. It is woody (in a good way, like bourbon), but I get a lot of nice spiciness and warmth that made me think it was more than 80 proof. Also I find strong chocolate and sherry notes riding along with the oak, and lasting a very long time on the finish. I found this much more complex and challenging (if not really intense) than many 12 year olds, which makes me wonder at your comment about “If you’re a new scotch drinker and can’t handle this then scotch may not be for you.” That’s just a comment I’d associate with something smooth, light, and boring like Glenlivet 12 (or Glenfiddich 12?), not a spicier scotch like this.
There’s more there than a 12 year old Glenlivet or Glenfiddich but on the scotch spectrum I still find this to be a pretty tame dram. With everything whiskey related, it’s all opinion. I always encourage folks to try for the themselves. Don’t just take my word for it.