A new independent bottler from the Netherlands! That’s always cause for celebration, especially when their first release is for the 10th anniversary of the Dutch Whisky Forum. I’m hoping to publish an interview with the Whiskydudes sometime in the near future, but I couldn’t get that to work for this blog post. Something to look forward to.
For now I’ll just say that these guys are whisky enthusiasts just like you and me. They’ve been spending a big chunk of their own money on casks currently maturing in Scotland. So far they’ve released the Glentauchers I’m reviewing today, as well as a Girvan from a re-fill sherry octave. They are not in a hurry to put out new releases. It’s more of a passion than a business.
I had a great time last year visiting Glentauchers and have been meaning to try a little more of their whisky, so this anniversary bottling is a perfect opportunity. Distilled in 1996, it matured for a very respectable 23 years in an ex-bourbon barrel.
Glentauchers 1996 23 Years (51.9%, Whiskydudes, C#3969)
Nose: Hints of vanilla custard and touches of red apple parts, as well as pineapple and mango, even some nectarines. A touch of straw and hessian too, maybe some eucalyptus, but very faint. Slightly floral, and overall very clean and crisp.
Taste: A bit chalky and there’s a lovely pepperiness, yet never too bold or harsh. A touch of vanilla and butter, but also some peaches, stewed apples and icing. Quite impressed.
Finish: Lingering spices and a soft fruitiness.
Score: 88
It’s a bit like a Pulteney except for the lack of coastal influence. It’s not a unique flavour profile, it is very well done though. I’ll happily work my way through my bottle.
Photo: Whiskybase
