Glen Elgin 1968 (Gordon & MacPhail)

There have been multiple Glen Elgin 1968 releases from the Gordon & MacPhail stocks. This one was matured in a refill sherry hogshead and bottled in 2004.

Glen Elgin 35 yo 1968 (46%, Gordon & MacPhail Connoisseurs Choice 2004)

Nose: very subtle sherry, and very oaky – in a good way. Shows oak polish, ripe pears and some cinnamon. Quite a lot of eucalyptus honey as well. A hint of bubblegum in the background – a nice touch. Faint hints of burnt sugar. Nice and lively for such an old malt with a luxurious charm.

Mouth: sherry again, but with a smoky, even very lightly peated profile. Charred oak? Walnut skin and liquorice. Some toffee. Gets a little sharp towards the end, with resin, tannins and hints of mustard seeds. Bitter almonds as well.

Finish: long, really dry and slightly herbal.

A great nose, but a little too resinous and tannic on the palate to get a higher score. Around € 120 but almost impossible to find.

Score: 87/100