Released in 2010, Glen Garioch's new 12 year old is matured in both bourbon and sherry casks, and it has loads of character, as well as being bottled at the sensible strength of 48%...
Bought a 1-liter bottle of this and am glad I did! On the nose was sherry and Japanese ume-shu (plum liquor), malt and very subtle notes of toffee, vanilla and rum. On the palate was bourbon cask, liquor-infused fruit and toffee. I also detected, of all things, a taste like steamed spinach! The finish was long, and you can taste the cask. After a few drops of water, more maltiness, and the fruit becomes more pronounced. Let it sit for a few minutes and the aromas really come out. Healthy 48% ABV, too.
Reminds me alot of Glendronach, especially the 8 yo Hielan. In comparison to The Hielan, the 4 yo age difference makes a huge difference in taste. The sherry and the bourbon casks are clearly present and make a nice marriage. Glen Garioch is a lot smoother than The Hielan and smoother than most Glendronach's overall. This 'smoothness' does come with a price however; GD, to me, has a bit more character. Nevertheless, I highly reccomended this whisky to any GD fan.
Rather good this one and at 48% lots of bang for yer buck.Nice flavours and quite a long finish.Well worth a try.Has received 90/100 from Ralfy,so must be good!!!?
Each drinker has their own views on tastes, smells and looks of each whisky they try..some want to drink it, some to savour it and others to just enjoy it for what it is. All I can say is I was blown away by this as a single malt. It was a real surprise. I never expected such a taste sensation.......just sorry it wasn't out of a cut glass tumbler (my prefered drinking vessel crafted as carefully as its contents).
Fastastic whisky. Punchy, fruity, lovely long finish and beautifully smooth for a 12yr!
