Having recently tasted an overtly sweet Tomintoul, I’m slightly hesitant to try the Glencadam Reserva PX. Both distilleries are part of Angus Dundee Distillers and share the same master blender. While the Tomintoul matured in Port casks, ageing in Pedro Ximénez casks sometimes generates cloying results also.
I’m not very familiar with Glencadam, but what I have tasted of theirs seems very decent. Good even. Glencadam’s spirit could be described as light and floral, resulting from a production process that maximises reflux. Yet it can be fairly full-bodied too. Not timid.
Someone whose palate I trust was very fond of the Glencadam Reserva PX. And this expression’s older sibling has received its fair share of positive reviews as well. That gives me confidence. I’m sure it’ll be sweet – that’s almost implicit given the maturation regime. Balance is all I can hope for.

Glencadam Reserva PX (46%, OB, 2023)
Nose: Sticky molasses combined with jammy strawberries, some raspberries and crème de cassis. Subtle notes of dates too, as well as a sliver of chocolate bonbons with a Maraschino cherry filling.
Taste: A syrupy mouthfeel, which isn’t a surprise. Also a surprising hoppy note alongside blackcurrants and Red Kola. The latter might be recency bias – I first tried this curious Scottish soda just a few weeks ago. Some gentle wood spices liven things up, while chocolate brings a further richness.
Finish: Medium length. A touch of charred oak. Then peppercorns and juicy red fruits.
Sample provided by De Monnik Dranken