Glen Moray Chardonnay Cask 10 Year

I absolutely must start with a brief complaint here because I can't fathom how anything could score less than 4 stars for this hidden gem. We have to recognize that it costs around $35 at most. My friends, it is completely worth the price and is quite distinct because you get that Speyside burn with a Chardonnay barrel influence, and it's a 10-year-old single malt! Sure, just because it says "10" years and is under $35 doesn't guarantee it will taste good (Lismore comes to mind as an example), but honestly, you won't regret this purchase if you favor Speyside-style whiskey. It has vanilla upfront, builds in intensity, and concludes with a rather spicy, dry finish. The main point is that it's highly recommended for anyone on a budget seeking a single malt with an excellent profile. (Avoid adding water to this one)

This is truly exceptional! Enhancing the 12-year-old expression by aging it in Chardonnay casks results in a significantly superior product. It was a delight: the nose offered hints of lemon, honey, and floral notes, while the palate had the slightest suggestion of smoke and honey. The finish is impressively complex and lengthy for a spirit of its age. If you're contemplating purchasing this bottle from your local store, go for it! You won't regret it.

Reviewed with a friend on August 8, 2020. From Speyside. Delightful! Refreshing and fruity, it's a great choice for warmer weather because it strongly resembles Chardonnay. However, its primary drawback is that it tastes almost exclusively like Chardonnay. I would have preferred more varied flavors beyond just that characteristic. While I'm pleased I purchased it, I'm uncertain if I'd buy it again.

I've long been a supporter of Glen Moray Elgin Classic. Yet, this chardonnay finish is not to my liking. The chardonnay is overpowering and, in my opinion, ruins the pleasant malt notes I seek in my Scotch. This doesn't suit me. (Conversely, I do enjoy the port cask expression; that one works for me.)

The nose offers a light bouquet of vanilla, honey, and floral notes. The body, however, is quite full and presents a balanced mix of shortbread, nutmeg, and subtle hints of licorice on the palate. The finish is sweet and medium in length. Delicious stuff and an incredible deal if you can find a bottle ($40 USD).

It's worth trying as it's quite unique. The flavor strongly resembles Chardonnay, but that's the primary characteristic. It has floral notes, vanilla, and a smooth nuttiness. The mouthfeel is rich and pleasant, with an exceptionally brief finish. I would suggest purchasing a small serving but not a full bottle.