Glendronach is not a distillery often seen in stores at the moment. It was mothballed in 1996, restarted in 2002, bought by Pernod Ricard in 2005 and put up for sale again in 2008. The distillery has now been bought by the owners of BenRiach, and we should spell GlenDronach now (with a capital D) to make that clear (marketing dudes…).
The core range (12yo, 15yo and 18yo) was reworked and relaunched. Hence the name Revival for the 15 years old.
GlenDronach 15y ‘Revival’
(46%, OB 2009)
Nose: There certainly are sulphur notes in this bottling. The first thing I get are mushrooms, a dirt bin and some rubber. Now this is personal, some people like it, others don’t. I have difficulties with it, but let’s move on. Very clear oloroso sherry influence as well: raisins, balsamico vinegar, coffee, mint… Slightly herbal. Subtle smoke as well.
Mouth: good mouthfeel. The sherry continues with raisins, dark chocolate, figs, prunes and (slightly bitter) coffee notes. Still a bit dirty if you ask me.
Finish: spicier on cloves. Quite long.
I suppose this is going to get a low score in next year’s Whisky Bible. I find it difficult to really appreciate it, although there is some lovely old-style sherry at work here. I can imagine some people adore this for its “off-road” character. Around € 50.
Score: 81/100