First revealed towards the end of 2014, the Founder's Reserve single malt Scotch whisky is now available in the UK and will be replacing The Glenlivet 12 year old in many of the mature markets despite initial indications that it would sit beside it, broadening the entry-level options. Named in tribute to distillery founder George Smith, it's packaged in Georgian blue.
Some dates then what at first appears to be a touch of salinity, but is better described as a slightly sharp plum and apricot wine note. There's orange zest, toffee, hints of struck match and chocolate raisins, but before this starts to sound 'Sherried' there's also pear drops, a dusting of sweet cinnamon, honeysuckle and sweet pea.
Fruity, then sweet, more toffee, a touch of anise, then into milk chocolate Flakes, banoffee pie and apple turnovers.
Creamy toffee to the fore now, a little oak and sweet barley sugar warmth too. Milk chocolate raisins linger.
Perhaps a little sweet, but it would work well with ice where the sweetness would be slightly suppressed - and before you shudder with disgust, Alan Winchester said that he liked his with a little ice sometimes too. And if it's good enough for the Master Distiller...
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Just saw this featured here in the US, so decided to give it a whirl. Was a little put off by no age statement, but hey, it's Glenlivet, "Founders Reserve", right? And of course the price was right. I'll not get into the toffees and citrus and peat, etc., etc....with a splash of water, I found it way too light for a single malt. As we are still fortunate here to get the 12 YO, I'll not make this mistake again...just as soon drink White Horse Blended, and get more flavor...
As an occasional whisky drinker a single bottle can last me a year or two. I've often had Glenfiddich 12 and 15, once had an 18. All enjoyable and fine taste. Have had Bells and cannot stand that. Given this as an anniversary present, nice taste with a little water or ice - tend to drink a glass over an evening so ice doesn't last long anyway. Not too strong. Have not had a Glenlivet before so nothing to compare it directly to. The bottle will probably last me and the wife a year or so, nice drink. Will probably buy it myself if I don't get another one next December. Note - reading through some of the reviews of other whisky I have enjoyed I can see that people have a variety of tastes. This one is to my taste. That does not make others wrong. Would recommend people try a whisky for themselves rather than rely on good or bad reviews by others.
Had it today on a recommendation because the 12 year I normally drink was gone. Founders tastes harsh and no comparison to the 12 much less the older varieties that are special buys for the holidays. I would recommend another brand in this price range.
The founder's reserve isn't bad, but it is not what I really think of when I want Scotch. It is light and almost flowery. It is a little on the harsh side when drinking straight up. Though not unpleasant, I think I will continue with the more traditionally aged varieties.
Better than Glenfiddich 12 yo. Never did try the 'livet 12 for comparison but the FR is quite nice as an entry level Scotch. That said, Glenlivet 18 will remain my go-to dram from the distillery. The difference in price is well worth the difference in quality.
