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...
Non-vintage, bland and disappointing
Just finished my second glass, no it's not the best nor is it the worst whisky. If you want better, then pay £15 more a bottle! It's a decent honest malt, judging by the feedback, it's not for the officianodos, but for me ( 30 years drinking the stuff) it's better than just ok. Dont believe all the feedback on here! I would buy another bottle
Don't fall for the odd good review. I promise you - this whisky is BAD bad. I'd genuinely rather have an average blend. I don't know what the people below are smoking, but I have been drinking single malt for years and have tried over 50 varieties, and I can say hand on heart that this whisky is hollow, insepid, and coarse. Even comparing to similar 'desert' malts, such as Dalwhinnie, this is no comparison. It is not a patch on the Glenlivet 12. Also, how bl**dy old is it? Why the mystery!? That's telling enough! I really should have spent more time at the shop, but I was rushed off my feet. Never again! Dear Glenlivet - a shame upon your house!
I have always enjoyed your 12 year old and counted it a favourite. This new 'Founder's Reserve' must see him turning in his grave. It is dreadful. No more Glenlivet for me unless you bring back the 12 year old.
If you look for a light flavour, nice tasting and smooth whisky this is the one for you. I paid it £22 and it's really good for the price. If you're looking for an amazing single malt with peculiarities of course it's not your choice. But hey, you don't always want to drink the best, sometimes quality combined with a good bang for the buck is enough!
