Glen Scotia 1991 Benchmark (Murray McDavid)

Online tasting from Drammers Club. One third of a 25-year Glen Scotia was sampled alongside SMWS 93.78, described as "Like A Vintage Dessert Wine," and an official bottling of Glen Scotia 25. It was the second favorite of the 25-year-olds, just behind SMWS 93.78 "Like A Vintage Dessert Wine." It lacks much of the characteristic maritime flavors of Glen Scotia. Nose: Raisins, Chocolate, Toffee, Cherries, Raspberries, Strawberries, Dates, Prunes, Cinnamon, Pepper, Blackberries, Cookie Dough, Burnt Pineapples, Blueberries Palate: Strawberries, Cherry Starburst; Chocolate, Citrus, Toffee, Figs, Dates, Prunes, Smoke, Salted Caramel Finish: Blackberries, Cherries, Chocolate, Cinnamon, Pepper, Toffee, Blueberries, Strawberries

Aged in a sherry hogshead and then finished for four years in a French Pinot Noir cask, this bottling adds a well-balanced strawberry note that complements the citrus and malt character of the Glen Scotia spirit. The sweetness is perfectly integrated. While red wine finishes often fall short in my experience, this one is a success.

Actually spent 27 years in Scotland.

A subtle trace of smoke.