Glengoyone Cask Strength Batch 5

I considered purchasing this for several months before finally making the acquisition. The appearance is neither impressive nor disappointing. It's from Glengoyne, a distillery capable of both regrettable and remarkable productions. Let's proceed. Nose - Sweet vanilla cream, rich buttery pastry, a hint of chocolate but reminiscent of chocolate used in baking, and a noticeable presence of solvent or spirituous sharpness. Dilution diminishes the pleasant sweet notes and disperses the sharp spirituous character, making it less pronounced but still pervasive. Taste - The palate reveals further sherry influences, which are quite pleasing. It leans towards milk chocolate with some fruitiness. The malt profile is typical of Glengoyne: rather subdued and muted, with undertones of grain and sweetness. Imagine a delicate dessert. The recurring issue, however, is that despite an abundance of agreeable flavors... a raw, acidic alcohol sensation dominates. It obscures the nuances. Adding water... Dilution has amplified the acidity and sourness, potentially making the spirit taste even younger. Initially, I was inclined to explore this further, but frankly, I've sampled it before and my opinion has evolved from considering it undrinkable (in fact, I discarded a glass meant for a friend after tasting it, especially following a superior dram) to recognizing some merit. Overall - I appreciate the alcohol level, it possesses a pleasing mouthfeel, and the characteristic Glengoyne malt and sherry cask influence is present, which enthusiasts will enjoy. However, I cannot overlook its immature, sour, and overly spirited nature. 1.5 stars - I wish I could enjoy this more; it contains many desirable components, but the overall taste is marred by what is undeniably hastily produced whisky.

A fantastic nose, with raw sugar sprinkled over cream soaked in sherry, and shredded dried cherries drizzled with toffee (once the alcohol's sharpness fades), it's rather oily. A jammy, rich palate truly excels here, featuring very sweet, fresh cherries, orange marmalade, overripe bananas, raisins, and plenty of freshly cracked black pepper and allspice. A medium finish, dry with ample pepper and spice, whipped cream, dried fruits, and a pleasant warmth that lingers, perhaps slightly marred by a faint bitterness right at the end?

The aroma offers sherry, brown sugar, and butter cookies. The palate is thick, smooth, and warm with butter and brown sugar. The lengthy finish is spicy and sweet.

Solid drink. At this higher proof, it isn't as impressive when diluted compared to certain other bottles.

Spicy caramel on the nose. Tastes like black pepper and leather. Sweet finish.

Delicious.