Glentauchers 1996/2016 (Gordon & MacPhail)

Just outside of Keith lies Glentauchers distillery, founded in 1898. It is one of those big blend fillers, as most of the annual production of 4,1 million liters of alcohol goes into Ballantine’s. Some of it however, finds its way to independent bottlers, resulting in bottlings such as this Glentauchers 1996/2016 from Gordon & MacPhail.

This particular bottling is a vatting of first fill sherry casks, although the color suggests these casks probably weren’t overly active. Let’s see what we have here.

Glentauchers 1996/2016 (43%, Gordon & MacPhail)

Nose: Oranges, but some other more subtle citrus notes as well, such as lemon peel. Stewed apple too. Lots of melted butter and Werther’s original, and a tiny pinch of cinnamon accompanied by candy hearts. Attractive nose, although the hint of copper coins is less appealing.
Taste: Mouthfeel is more than decent, even at 43 percent. Buttery almost. Sweet and spicy notes. Dark cocoa, candied oranges, some faint dried fruits. Nutmeg and very soft notes of chili pepper.
Finish: The spices linger for a bit, medium in length.

Rating: 82

Slightly boring maybe, but certainly well-rounded and balanced. A nice, middle of the road whisky.

Sample provided by Gordon & MacPhail