Glendronach 12 Year Old
Welcome, fellow Centurions, to our latest whisky exploration featuring the Glendronach 12 year old. While my encounters with Glendronach have been somewhat limited, it's undeniable that this distillery has garnered a cult-like following since its revival under the legendary Billy Walker nearly two decades ago. Through its tumultuous past, changing hands multiple times in the twentieth century, Glendronach finally found its footing under Walker's guidance, refocusing on aged statement single malts and stepping out of the shadows from its role in blends, most notably Teacher’s.
Bottle
Glendronach's whisky bottles sport a classic yet simplistic design, perhaps even bordering on mundane. Having being reborn under Walker's leadership in 2008, the bottle's styling may even have seemed outdated at the time. The most note-worthy element of the bottle is a curious incident from a few years back when the "non-chill filtered" label was removed, sparking some controversy. While not inherently scandalous, it underscores how even beloved whiskies are not immune to the debates surrounding production processes.
Colour
Thankfully, Glendronach continues to honor the natural color of its whisky, boasting a rich, deep Muscat hue, bordering on Tawny. Aged exclusively in Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso Sherry casks for a full twelve years, the result is nothing short of glorious, evident from the moment the liquid is poured into the glass.
Nose - Prepare your senses for a delightful experience with this twelve year old whisky. The initial impression is a wave of syrupy sweetness from the sherry, accompanied by subtle hints of spices reminiscent of mulled wine, with a whisper of orange peel lingering in the background.
Palate - Upon the first sip, the unmistakable influence of sherry casks reveals itself. The whisky envelops the palate with a silky texture, swiftly followed by a warm, buttery flavour reminiscent of raisins and dark sugar. Oaky undertones are discernible, with ginger taking centre stage among the array of spices.
Finish - The finish is a lingering symphony of flavours, characterised by a dryness that allows the spices and warmth to gradually mellow. Subtle notes of nutmeg and ginger dance on the palate, culminating in a truly satisfying conclusion.
Overall
For aficionados seeking a whisky with a robust sherry influence, the Glendronach 12 is an excellent starting point. Don't let the unassuming bottle design deter you, for behind its bland exterior lies a whisky that has earned its cult following over the years. While Billy Walker has long since moved on, the expert hands of Master Blender, Rachel Barrie ensure that Glendronach's commitment to quality remains unwavering. Priced in the middle of the range for twelve year old whiskies, at under £50, this dram is unquestionably worth every penny. Cheers to the enduring legacy of Glendronach!
Available from Master of Malt for around £46