GlenDronach Cask Strength Batch 2

Have I ever told you how great The Glendronach is? Some years ago, Glendronach, one of my three favorite distilleries, started releasing batch strength expressions. They even had the foresight to name them with numbers. I've had some of them, but this time I got my hands on Batch No. 2. This single malt has been matured in Oloroso and PX sherry and bottled at 55.2% ABV. Only 16,500 bottles were ever made. On the nose, this is a MONSTER AROMA. A floral madness; a chocolate & hazelnut bomb. Nutmeg, cocoa powder. It has a dusty quality. It smells exactly like leaving a Crunch chocolate bar in the fridge. It is the best chocolate aroma that has ever existed in human history. After a first sip, the aroma changed into something I can only describe as red berries on steroids. Breathtaking. On the palate, it starts again with a very clean floral note, which is new for me with Glendronachs. Chocolate and something I can describe as "raisin wine." Strawberries dipped in chocolate. Aftertaste reflects the immensity of this dram. Chocolate, floral; Dry. It's impressive; Chocolate and hazelnut. Nutty overall, almonds and pecans. In conclusion, this is the power of Billy Walker. This was released under his leadership. An out-of-this-world dram, this will definitely be on my yearly top ten for 2023. Did I mention that this is the most "chocolatey" spirit ever, even surpassing the Glenmorangie Signet? I am speechless. A perfect 100-point score, because I can't give it 1 million. Slàinte Mhath!!!

Nose: raisins, toffee, caramel, rum-soaked bananas, apples, ripe citrus, mint Palate: Dark fruits, honey, ripe bananas, dark caramel. Adding water brings out juicy pear notes and ginger. Finish: Medium, oily finish with notes of toffee and spice. Very well balanced. Heavy sherry notes on the nose and palate, with a good amount of spice mingled in. Adding water brings out some more spice and brighter fruits like pear and banana. It's not my favorite drink for sipping, but it's still a damn good dram.

Excellent flavor. Very balanced. A slight maple aftertaste?