GlenDronach Cask Strength is a new addition in the core range, without age statement and bottled at 54,8% (at least for batch #1). It’s a vatting of oloroso and Pedro Ximénez matured casks.
GlenDronach ‘Cask strength’
(54,8%, OB 2012, batch #1, 12.000 btl.)
GlenDronach ‘Cask strength’Nose: quite aromatic and fruity. Actually maybe a little less sherried than expected, which is a good thing here. Round notes of soaked raisins, Gianduja and cinnamon. Honey and toffee. Juicy, stewed red fruits rather than heavier dried fruits. It even shows a light baked banana / rummy side. Nice.
Mouth: sweet and spicy. Plums, blackcurrant jam and again this milk chocolate / hazelnut combination. Some gingerbread and aniseed with a faint gingery heat. Late liquorice and herbs.
Finish: long, developing the herbal theme, with slightly loud oak and a darker, drier cocoa feel.
I already highlighted GlenDronach Cask Strength as one of the discoveries of Spirits in the Sky 2012 back in November. It’s clean, fruity and smooth, just great whisky with well-balanced sherry, and it’s one of the best value options in a long time, not just for GlenDronach fans. Now let’s hope they can keep new vattings at the same level. Around € 65.
Score: 90/100