Single Malt
Scotland
1 Jan 1974
1 Jan 2015
1
A 40 year old Glenlivet that spent its final 48 months in a Sherry cask before being bottled for La Maison du Whisky in 2015.
Delicate, balanced. Strong spices (paprika, nutmeg, cloves) form an initial olfactory setting which is full of character. Behind this determined start, we find candied orange, heady florals (iris), aromatic plants (camomile), schist and emery cloth. Gradually we are plunged into the aromas of a carpenter’s workshop filled with citron melon, wood pulp and varnish. It then becomes exotic (mango, passion fruit).
Fine, concentrated. The same spicy fervour steers the attack. Pepper and ginger arrive, to join the spices already present. The mid-palate is especially original, oscillating between exotic fruit, citrus and notes of courgette and red kuri squash. Gradually, velvety, vanilla tannins coat the taste buds at the end of the palate.
Unctuous, creamy. With a very pleasant vanilla and fruity (coconut) freshness, the finish becomes increasingly floral (hollyhock, peony). Black liquorice and camphor give renewed vitality to the retro-nasal olfaction. Reverent and inspired, the empty glass welcomes us into a dark, humid cellar.
