Here we go with the Glentauchers again! Plenty of casks around these days, almost all of them high-quality. I could see why The Whisky Exchange decided to include one of these in their new(ish) range—Single Casks by The Whisky Exchange.
It was quietly launched during last year’s Whisky Show. Several—like a Springbank 1993—sold out instantly, while others are still for sale. One of the whiskies still available is a Glentauchers from 1997, matured in a ex-bourbon barrel.
While I’ve had enough tasty Glentauchers in recent years, the distillery has no single malt presence to speak of and lacks any brand presence. Of course, owners Chivas could care less, because they mostly use it for Ballantine’s. So, it’s not surprising at all that releases like this one take a little longer to sell out.
Glentauchers 1997 21 Years (54.5%, The Whisky Exchange, C#402)
Nose: Rather rich and deep with notes of wax, cinnamon sugar and (fermented) apples. Notes of vanilla custard, lemon zest, butter cake and even millionare’s shortbread. Finally a touch of almond.
Taste: Very creamy mouthfeel, followed by that typical spicy/fruity flavour profile. Peppery and chalky yet never too harsh, balanced by the creaminess and an assortment of bitter citrus peel. Some peaches and pear skin too. Rather impressive.
Finish: Cinnamon and nutmeg. Lingering and fading into oak.
Score: 88
These mid-90s Glentauchers have a narrow flavour profile, but one that I find very agreeable and with a high floor to boot. You almost can’t go wrong with any of these. Available at The Whisky Exchange.
Sample provided by The Whisky Exchange
