Glenfiddich Grand Couronne 26 Year

I finally had the opportunity to sample one of Glenfiddich's most celebrated and recognized expressions from the past two years. This 26-year-old expression, named Grande Couronne, is finished in distinguished cognac casks and bottled at 43.8%. The decanter itself is absolutely stunning. The aroma is delightful. It's like peaches coated in an elegant honey/apple syrup. It presents a blend of scents; a creation combining grapefruits, gooseberries, and lime. It's a fruit medley. Watermelon, kiwis, apples are present, all exceptionally fruity. Even the spice I detect on the nose feels fruity. I wasn't fond of how it diminished slightly after the first sip: it offered honey and some grassy notes. Yellow apples. Milk & spices. It begins somewhat delicate on the palate. Grapefruits, gooseberries, farm-fresh fruits. On the second sip, I notice slightly sweeter notes, milk with sugar, corn flakes. Very light. Hay. Aftertaste is pleasant, rich. Cake and tobacco. Vanilla, very refined notes. Honey, cough syrup, and ginger. Highly satisfying. After a second sip, I can confirm it's a good aftertaste. Hay. It makes the mouth water and is long-lasting. Nougat. Overall, the slightly below-average palate is inconsistent with a lovely nose and a great aftertaste. If the palate were a bit better, this would be a memorable dram. My rating for this rather substantial whisky from Glenfiddich is 86 out of 100.

Brilliant spirit aged two-thirds in American oak and one-third in European oak, followed by a two-year maturation in cognac casks. Nose: Pineapples, sultanas, vanilla, rancio, almonds, honey, lavender, coconuts, white chocolate, peaches, marshmallows, morello cherries, lychees, mangoes, fig syrup Palate: Raisins, peaches, honey, coconuts, vanilla, peaches, milk chocolate, red apples, pears, almonds Finish: Sultanas, pineapple syrup, cherries, almonds, oranges, vanilla

Incredibly mellow. A gorgeous spirit.

Amazing.