Glendronach Cask Strength Batch 3 (54.9%, OB, 2013)

• 54.9% ABV,
• £52 for 70cl
• Score: 84/100

What they say:

A classic GlenDronach exactly as we made it – cask strength, non chill filtered and at natural colour. The cask strength has been matured in a combination of Pedro Ximenez and Oloroso sherry casks.The first batch comprised of some 12,000 bottles and is bottled at 54.8%. Batch 2 has been bottled at 55.2% and comprises of 16,500 bottles. Batch 3 was bottled at 54.9%.

Expression

GlenDronach Cask Strength – Batch 3

Appearance

Hints of ruby through a body of deep golden amber.

Nose

Fantastic waves of soft golden syrup over dates and rum raisins hold a gentle tangerine and ground almond back note. Toasted oak with a dusting of cocoa adds a rich warmth and depth.

Palate

Crisp barley and a freshly sawn oak spice burst through ripe plums and golden sultanas. A delicate note of dried apricots and candied peel adds a fantastic sweet, zesty balance. Subtle touches of milk chocolate soften the long expressive finish.

Conclusions

A perfect harmony of classic Highland characters and elegant sherry influences.

What I say:

A strong sherry monster, matured in Oloroso casks, with no age statement (NAS). It could only be Glendronach! This is their 3rd incarnation of the Cask Strength release. Went down well but are they guilty of over-egging the pudding (or over-sherry maturing the whisky)?

Colour:

Russet ruby

Nose:

Rubber, nutty, leather, chocolate, glazing putty (latex and linseed oil)

Taste:

Prunes, characteristic suede/leather, slight rubbery, ginger and cinnamon spices, chocolate and fruit cake (Christmas cake)

Finish:

Long chocolate/cocoa and leather tannins

Originally sampled at: Jolly Toper Tasting 10/04/2014 dubbed ‘The French Connection’