Glenfiddich 18 Years was the oldest whisky I’ve tasted when my aunt gifted me this bottle. It was very different from what I was used to, which was mainly peated scotch. As I mentioned in past posts, I have a sweet tooth so this Oloroso Sherry & Bourbon matured Scotch sure opened my eyes about what Scotch had to offer other than bold smokiness.
Glenfiddich 18 Years
Distilled by The Glenfiddich Distillery
Type: Single Malt Scotch
Region: Dufftown Speyside, Scotland, UK
Age: 18 years, aged in Oloroso Sherry Butts & Bourbon casks
ABV: 40% (80 proof)
Mash bill: 100% malted barley.
Colouring: Yes
Appearance: 9.5/10
The whisky comes in a tall hard box with a little leaflet where some information is given on their core range. More data can be found on both sides of the label, where some tasting notes & facts about their ageing process are described. The bottle is clear although I don’t mind since the box gives an additional layer of protection against the light. The whisky is topped with a cork, helping to prevent oxidation & evaporation. The packaging hits all the marks as to what I expect from a spirit industry. The liquid itself is a deep amber with some golden hues, although it can be misleading since Glenfiddich has been known to use colouring agent in their whiskies to give consistency. When I tilt my glass, a small crest forms instantly as well as medium legs falling back quickly.
Nose: 13.5/15
The nose is reminiscent of dried fruits such as figs, dates & raisins. There are also underlying aromas of cooked apple pie & poached pears. Contributing to an overall impression of fresh out of the oven desserts are cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, cranberry sauce, caramel & a hint of vanilla. A sharper tone of pepper seems to melt in with the baking spices. A little further down the road I pick some orange marmalade, candied citrus, honey & strawberry syrup. The nose is similar to what would’ve happened if a fruitcake, an apple pie & Grand Marnier would have made a baby.
Mouth: 13/15
The mouthfeel is quite warming with a faint burn from the ethanol, a medium body, a slightly sweet palate & a lush texture. It pairs wonderfully with the flavours of cooked orchard fruits, oak, baking spices, toffee & vanilla Dulce de Leche. Again, it feels like an alcoholic version of my grandmother’s desserts. However, it seems more muscular, with more presence from the barrel, lending a woody note. The dried fruits are still there although they have been toned down. I must admit that as much as I love this, I preferred the experience on the nose.
Finish: 9/10
The finish is quite long although shorter than what I was expecting due to the richness of the flavour profile. The fruitcake is really what stays with you until the end with only the slightest hint of caramel.
Overall: 90/100
A remarkable adventure to taste this 18-year-old Scotch. The aromas & flavours experienced couldn’t be further than what is commonly found in heavily peated scotch. This is definitely something I would recommend to anyone who thinks whisky is too smoky or too aggressive. Again, the high score may reflect that I have a sweet tooth, but this is still a very well-balanced product that offers great complexity in its flavours.
3-word Description:
Fruitcake, Rich & Caramel.
The Reference
More information @glenfiddich.com
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