This Glen Elgin 1997 is part of the recently rebranded Connoisseurs Choice range from Gordon & MacPhail. Bottlers are often making a special effort when (re-)launching a series so we have high expectations…
For me Glen Elgin is synonymous to fruity spirit (long fermentation times), sometimes slightly tropical. We’ve had great examples from independent bottlers – the owner (Diageo) isn’t really promoting it as a single malt.
Glen Elgin 20 yo 1997 (55,7%, Gordon & MacPhail Connoisseur’s Choice 2018, first-fill sherry butt #18/003, 602 btl.)
Nose: very jammy and perfectly clean. Juicy raspberries, cassis juice, cherry jam and fresh plums. Orange liqueur. Hints of oak polish. Gentle hints of espresso and toasted oak. Toffee apple and light vanilla. Rather perfect.
Mouth: starts fruity but there’s a huge impression of vermouth after that. Never had it like this before but it’s lovely. Think light winey notes mixed with orange peel, clove and cinnamon. Refreshing whiffs of menthol. Then leathery touches and cocoa. Subtle roasted nuts and oak again.
Finish: long, on light charred notes, Oloroso and chocolate.
I already tipped you off about this one a few weeks ago. After trying it, I feel sorry for not having bought more of it myself, it is downright delicious. Around € 150 but sold out in the usual places.