Glen Moray 8 Year

Rating: 8/23 I sampled the NAS Glen Moray Port Cask Finish at a bar previously and found it quite pleasing, especially considering its $23 price. It remains the sole Glen Moray I've tried, so I'm eager to experience this one. Nose: Sweet, but mild. Pears are noticeable first, followed by some subtle minerals. A hint of nectar sweetness develops, suggesting maltiness without fully achieving it. Oh, I'm starting to detect some wood bitterness and tannic spice. A touch of vanilla too. It's not particularly complex or refined, but the notes are well-balanced, and I anticipate a decent performance for an 8-year-old scotch. A trace of wax. Palate: Oh, this has more burn than anticipated. There's a distinct spicy kick and some harshness. It's also less sweet than I expected. The spiciness leans towards the earthier side, with even a hint of chili. Not much is happening here. I wouldn't call it malty, but there's a bitterness that evokes malt more than wood, if that makes sense. Finish: Uninteresting. Continued heat with some of that chili earthiness. A bit of that bitterness. A mild note of sugar water, possibly with a little minerality. - Conclusion - It's not actively unpleasant to drink, but it's certainly not enjoyable. Monkey Shoulder (rated 15/23 – I thought I recalled rating it a 14) significantly surpasses this, offering greater fullness, richness, sweetness, and complexity. It's not challenging, but that comparison highlights its lack of depth. I finally get a hint of maltiness when comparing them directly. Dudognon Reserve (10/23) is also clearly superior, with its richer and more interesting fruit notes. I'm contemplating a 9, but leaning towards an 8. My confidence in Glen Moray has diminished.