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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Very good !!!?
Not normally a single malt drinker, but decided to try this. I have to say that, with a cube of ice, this is one of the nicest spirits I have tried. I am not sophisticated enough to 'get' the notes but I will say that this tastes great and leaves a very pleasant aftertaste.
Bought it today - I was actually looking for the 12 yo, had no idea that they had replaced it with this. I am definitely getting the vanilla, a little bit of citrus rind and a touch of warm spices on the nose. Tastes like alcohol (duh), slightly fruity, slightly sweet; finishes with a bit of a coffee note. I don't get any smoke in this. Keep in mind that taste (and smell, for that matter) are subjective as hell. I am enjoying it neat; I'll carry on sipping now, happy holidays everyone.
Going to further edit this review after I give it another try. But it took me back to my high school years where the market was dominated by Chivas Regal 12yo. Found it a little too similar and taste of alcohol was too strong on neat. On rocks might taste better, we'll see...
Its a single malt, it tastes delicious neat with a cube if ice. What’s not to like? I don’t subscribe to a lot of this rubbish people spout about this taste or that aroma, its all down to the individuals palette. Worth a punt in my opinion.
