Glenfarclas 105 is a superb cask strength whisky, with a history that can be traced to 1968. When the original incarnation was released that year, Glenfarclas became the first distillery to release a barrel proof single malt whisky.
The bottling was eventually re-named to 105, referring to its alcohol content in British Proof, which equates now to 60% ABV.
The 105 doesn't carry an age statement presently, making it rare among Glenfarclas bottlings. Although, there are suggestions that it is matured for 8-10 years in a combination of both ex-sherry and ex-bourbon barrels.
Drying, assertive and richly spiced, the 105 makes for a superb dram, one the Malt Maniacs rated as the best “Bang for your buck” whisky in 2004. Add a drop of water if you please to explore its depth - and don't be put off by that ABV, there's plenty of flavour here to enjoy.
Great depth, Sherry. Creamy and nutty. Honey on toast, touch of smoky coffee.
Silken, spicy and peppery oak. Almond, praline, hazelnut, dried peels, fruity. Touch of Armagnac, hint of rancio perhaps?
Long, peppery and nutty.
Was: £192.90Now: £191.90
The only thing I smell : alcohol The only thing I taste : alcohol with or without water : disgusting Why I give it 1 point instead of nothing ? : this fluid can be useful for cleaning wounds!
Meaty is not the word.. BUT! This is a biggie. A bit sulphurous on the nose, but then you have a swig.. Sorry, SIP and.. smooth, a bit oakey.. Chew on it and the flavour develops. Rather exceptional for the price...
Drinking neat: Nose is full on Fino Sherry bomb, spice, hint of sulphur, curry, tannins, rough oak, & maybe some burnt caramel. Taste is very rich and decadent (if it's to hot for you, I challenge you to take smaller sips. Like, just enough to touch your tongue small), sweet, winey, floral, syrupy. The nose is really not that enjoyable, but once it touches your tongue the whisky coats it with a warming syrupy sweet elixir and seems to evaporate and warm the entire inside of your mouth. The 60% worried me a bit and I was expecting to have to add water; so I only pored half the sampler. Once I took a sip or two I was shocked at how easy drinking this mammoth was and eventually pored the entire 50ml sampler in my glass and am happily sipping it. Would I buy it? Probably not. But it is definitely worth a try.
A wonderful whisky. Glenfarclas do some of the very best malts and this cask strength is a tour de force.
Glenfarlcas 12 is better BFYB imo. Nutty and dried fruits. Its got a highland character in a speysider if you ask me. Definitely, add a little water to bring this dram out of its shell.
