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...
Discovered it, at 28€, in a French supermarket. Suspicious that no age was mentioned (instead there's a bold "ESTd. 1824" on the label!). Tried it anyway. Smells & tastes rough & immature. Gave me indigestion & headache. Sad if this has replaced The Glenlivet 12 year old.
Glenlivet is a solid brand but what a shame that they should get into the con tactics of the large conglomerates i.e. rrp £35 always on bleeding offer, no age verification and sadly a less superior product to its successful Dad the 12 yr old. Try it, to see for yourself but you will be disappointed.
avoid avoid avoid. Needs at least 5 more years in the cask. Bleugh
This whiskey is fantastic with diet coke and ice....
I have to agree with the majority of views from my learned brethren here. Took a punt based on price, advertised for 20 quid from rrp of £35. No depth of flavour that fails to build on the palate. blatantly not aged like the 12y o. Probably 8 at best. tasted better with ginger ale but if you're going to do that might as well by a litre of bell's
