Glenrothes Oldest Reserve

Glenrothes Oldest Reserve used to be the oldest expression in the core range of this distillery and one of their most interesting expressions of the past few years in my opinion.

To create it, they combined casks from five vintages: 1967, 1972, 1977, 1979 and 1980. It was launched in the summer of 2012 so all components were aged for 30 to 45 years. Originally a travel retail expression (in the old wooden enclosure), it was also made available from other retailers (in a new cardboard version).

Glenrothes Oldest Reserve
(43%, OB 2012)

Nose: ah, classic old Speyside. Orange oils, lots of polished oak and ethereal spices. Some waxy and floral touches. Stewed apricots and greengages. Lime and other light tropical touches like passion fruits. I’d say a good part of this was matured in ex-bourbon wood.

Mouth: again this fairly fruity profile with an oriental touch. Peaches, (blood) oranges, apple compote, some creamy vanilla and spices. Light ginger, cinnamon and white pepper. Gets drier, with soft resinous notes and a little tobacco, but definitely not over-oaked.

Finish: long, half fruity, half spicy. Citrus green tea.

Very good, one of the best official Glenrothes I’ve tried. Relatively affordable as well, considering it’s still found on some shelves for the original price. Around € 250 (or try a sample).

Score: 90/100