GlenDronach 14 Year Virgin Oak Finish

My appreciation for GlenDronach is long-standing. I've sampled both younger and older expressions from this Highland distillery, and I've rarely been disappointed. This 14-year-old special release, finished in virgin American oak, carries a somewhat significant cost ($116). However, I must admit—this ranks among the most surprising whiskies I've encountered. It's simply magnificent! Its appearance is a coppery gold, suggesting it spent its initial 12.5-13 years in fine sherry casks. The elevated 46% ABV creates thick legs and leaves small beads after swirling, indicating its viscosity. The aroma is dominated by fine sherry and red fruits, very forward. The alcohol content commands attention if you approach too closely, but the sweet vanilla and freshly cut oak contribute a wonderful dimension not typically found in a standard 'Dronach. The palate delivers sweet red berries with a subtle buttery quality, lending it an extra layer of richness and indulgence. The oak presents with more heat than anticipated, but it feels appropriate upon arrival. Midway through the sip, it mellows into sweetness, with notes of vanilla beans and sugary grapes. The mouthfeel is rich and creamy, akin to a decadent dessert. The finish extends perhaps a bit too long and ultimately becomes drier than I had hoped, given the overall richness, but it doesn't detract significantly. A faint butterscotch note persists on the palate. It's fabulous. Overall, this expression nearly earned a spot in my All-Time Top 15—perhaps even Top 10. The price point is a bit steep for an age-stated whisky of this vintage, but exceptions are warranted here. It's a delicious, special GlenDronach. Try to find a bottle while they're still available. If you see it for under $95-100, you're getting a great deal. It's a solid 4.5 stars, without question. Enjoy.

Glendronach at its best. This is a 14-year-old, with 13 and a half years spent in a combination of sherry and American oak, followed by the last six months in virgin oak. The virgin oak would provide an extra boost of vanilla and wood spices. Traditionally, virgin oak wasn't really accepted in Scotch whisky, as it was believed to make young NAS whisky seem more mature. So, for Glendronach to use it as a finish and include an age statement shows they weren't trying to hide a young, immature whisky. They used it skillfully, like a chef gracefully adding spices to a dish. This pour was provided by my friend. I'm especially thankful because this is now impossible to find (at least for under $120, and not in the US). Nose is amazing. Like vanilla licorice. You get hazelnuts with vanilla ice cream on the palate. Finish is LONG. It just lingers with a bit of cinnamon taste. If anything, this would be perfect if it weren't for the spicy, long finish... it was a tad too long for my liking... but honestly, at this point, I'm just nitpicking. This is an excellent pour, and if you bought it while it was available, open it and enjoy it with friends and family. Thanks!

An exceptional offering from my favored producer globally, Glendronach. Around 2015, they introduced unique cask finishes, some with elegant white labels and others with more colorful "pastry" designs. This Glendronach 14yo, finished in virgin oak, is among those scarce releases that I was fortunate enough to acquire at auction. Presented at 46% ABV, it possesses a deep golden hue. The aroma is truly captivating. It begins with hints of meringue or lemon pie. Glazed donuts, vanilla cake. Following the initial taste, the scent evolves into notes of dulce de leche and herbs. Aromas reminiscent of mountainsides, grated coconut, and animal crackers emerge. The palate is incredibly refined. Vanilla ice cream and exceptionally creamy burrata cheese. It has a wonderfully creamy texture. Lemon and lime notes are present. After a few moments, a delightful burst of pepper appears! Subsequent sips introduced a hint of saltiness. It offers a simultaneous experience of sweet, salty, and peppery characteristics. The finish provides a superb conclusion to an outstanding spirit. Vanilla ice cream, wafers, and an intense pepper explosion. In summary, the defining word for this expression is "elegant." It is fit for royalty. Its character strongly reflects "virgin American oak," being exceptionally sweet and spicy. Remarkably creamy for a single malt, I rate this 92 out of 100.

This is a fantastic spirit, representing Glendronach at its peak. It has a beautiful golden hue. The finish is incredibly long, featuring ginger spice, nuts, and a hint of smoke as stated on the label. The overall balance is superb. During a tasting I hosted, this bottle was emptied rapidly, prompting me to purchase another as only a few remained in New Zealand. Rated 4.5, it's a bargain at just over $70 USD, earning a full 5 stars for value as it competes well with spirits twice its price. Updated May 18: After trying many more whiskeys, I still consider this a great dram, though I'd place it more in the 4 to 4.25 range. A couple of other whiskies that night surpassed the one I had.

Fruity, with cinnamon spice

Excellent whiskey. Thumbs up.