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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This is an entry level Scotch so don’t compare to Glenlivet’s older offerings. This bottle is great for cocktails, and with that in mind I’d prefer this over something like Monkey Shoulder. Makes a great old fashioned.
Awful taste unbefitting of a Glenlivet. Aftertaste is not unlike the smell of flash kitchen cleaner. Will not be buying this again.
Far from the poor ratings some are giving. This is a pleasant whisky with lovely after taste.
I just got one for £25 and I am pleased with it. Very sweet taste makes it easy drinker. I sensed strong toffee aftertaste with hint of spices, reminded me of sitting in Starbucks for some reason. Managed to drink the entire bottle with a friend who isn't even whisky lover. For that very reason it makes it a fantastic entry whisky for the money. I would definitely buy that one again.
Threw it away ... would give it a negative rating if I could give it minus stars. We love all Glenlivet expressions we've tried thus far ... but seriously ... this household drinks a variety of delightful single malts from several regions representing many styles and price points .... this one, with NAS, pure junk. Save your money.
