Unveiled in mid-2015, GlenDronach's The Hielan' is a rather handsome entry level 8 year old single malt from the Highland distillery's range, matured and married in bourbon and Sherry casks. Delightfully buttery with a good helping of chewy raisin and almond notes at its core, joined by touches of citrus and spice.
Honey'd malt, vanilla fudge and citrus peels. Slightly chocolate-y raisin notes and a little cinnamon.
More spice comes through on the palate, but the vanilla-rich buttery elements remain up front. Freshly baked biscuits topped with almonds and plump sultanas.
Quite long, with Sherried fruit and ginger lasting.
As well as adding gifts to lucky MoM orders, #WhiskySanta is granting wishes on social media every day! Hit the button above and let them know what you'd like. It could be yours!
Blew me away
I have been having a moan over the past few years about the proliferation of NAS malt whiskies, some of which are fine while others just shouldn't have been released. So, I was pleased to see Glendronach, one of my favourite distillers, being brave enough to release a stated 8 year old, especially at 46% and non-chillfiltered. That said, though, I can't say that I enjoyed this dram, especially at over £36. I had some friends round and we were trying various malts (all around this price point) and this was the one that got slated for being really rough and really not ready for drinking. Personally, I wouldn't go so far as that but nowhere near as good as the 12yo at only £2 more. As with all things whisky, these are only opinions!
Really great. smooth, sweet, well balanced... what more could you ask for?
super for the price
Wonderfull nose, warm mouthfilling taste. I taste hints of cacao, slices, nuts (almond?) and sweet stuff. I like the different batches of flavours coming in every sip. And with rhe quiet long finish the journey is complete. I would have guessed an older whisky in a blind taste too. Value for money, I run in to this bottle coincidentely, but it in my collectioneur permently now.
