Glenturret Single Malt Scotch Whiskey Douglas Laing “Old Particular” 1987 28 Year Old
(K&L Wines Exclusive)
49.7% ABV
$100
Website
What the Retailer Says:
It’s rare to see a 25 year old whisky for less than $150 these days, and even when we do see the occasional bottle our first instinct is often to ask: what’s wrong with it? Understanding that natural reaction we had to ask ourselves: how will people respond when we offer them a 28 year old, single barrel, cask strength, Highland single malt for $99.99? We’re hoping you’ll be excited because we’re absolutely thrilled! Glenturret isn’t a household name among whisky drinkers, but for those in the know it’s part of the Edrington portfolio: the group that owns Macallan, Highland Park, and Glenrothes. Glenturret is also considered the oldest distillery in Scotland, having been founded in 1775, and today it’s the home of Famous Grouse: the world-renowned blended whisky in which it plays a large role. This 28 year old expression has reduced naturally down to a perfectly-drinkable 49.7% ABV and has the richness, oiliness, and concentration that only mature whisky can offer. It’s full of brandied fruit, resin, supple caramel, and creamy malted goodness. Despite its old age, the whisky is surprisingly lithe and light on its feet. By no means is this a heavy, full-bodied number, but rather a classic Highland whisky with plenty of barrel-aged complexity. For the price, it’s a no brainer.
What Gary Says:
Nose: Rich, thick depth of tropical fruit salad, herbal spice, subtly floral with a note of malted milk balls.
Palate: Viscous, creamy mouthfeel, crème brluee, fruity (plums, lemon curd) before sharpening to a pepper spice – and then softening up again; a bit of water thins the mouthfeel a bit, but opens up the fruity sweetness further, adding a cereal grain note.
Finish: Long, and softly drying.
Comments: I’d never had anything from Glenturret, and this was more of an opportunistic purchase than anything (had the chance to pop into one of K&L’s stores, and thought “$100 for 28yr single malt? Why not!”) One of the better $100 blind purchases I’ve made. This is a lovely dram, and while very drinkable at bottled/cask strength – it stands up to water nicely. This was one of three bottles I picked up during my visit, and the only one I sought a back-up of. As a single cask private selection (which was sold out in short order), I don’t expect to have another chance to add a third, but this would be an insta-buy for me if I did.
Rating: Must Buy