Away from Islay peat and back into the warm embrace of some truly top notch Sherry now, as we open window 13 of Drinks by the Dram’s Whisky Advent Calendar…
A change of theme, perhaps, but another 12 year old expression today, this time from Glendronach! Interesting, up until 2005 (with this whisky having been distilled before that date) Glendronach were operating direct-fired stills, a tradition some distilleries in Scotland have maintained to this day (Glenfarclas, for example). Glendronach, however, were still using coal and were in fact the final distillery in Scotland to do so. The uneven heating provided by direct-firing creates hotspots in the stills and is thought to lead to different notes in the spirit produced and in the finished whisky, some of which you’ll be able to taste in today’s dram.
This Highland single malt was matured in ex-Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso Sherry casks from Spain, balancing robust Sherried notes with luxurious creaminess.
Lucky number 13!
Tasting Note for The GlenDronach 12 Year Old:
Nose: Rich cereals, struck match, raisin, cinnamon, caramelised sugar. Opens with some sweeter PX and lots of delicious raw ginger before becoming creamier with hazelnuts.
Palate: Fruits, peels, buttery. Pain au chocolat, a little marmalade on toast before becoming firmer and nuttier with spiced raisins.
Finish: Smoky toffee and nut brittle.
The GlenDronach 12 Year Old – 70cl, 43%
The Chaps at Master of Malt
Andy