Glenkinchie 10 Year

Most of the spirits I've possessed were acquired due to brand recognition or anticipation of a new release, lacking personal anecdotes. This bottle, however, is different. I discovered it over a year ago in a small shop, placed behind the counter without its packaging and with a price tag. Unfamiliar with it, a quick search revealed it had been superseded in 2008, making it quite a find. Upon opening, the age, bottled at least 1-13 years prior, was immediately apparent. The cork crumbled in my hand when I pulled it, leaving the remainder shattered inside. I likely damaged the only bottle of this I'll ever encounter. Thankfully, a neighbor's coffee filter proved effective, a useful tip if you face a similar situation. I save old corks, and one from Ledaig 10 fit perfectly. Enough about that; let's discuss the spirit. Nose: Exhibits fruitiness and floral characteristics. Notes of apple/apple juice, pear, apricot, and a touch of lemon citrus. A subtle hint of plum. Underlying malt and toffee. Touches of white grape and a mild milk chocolate sweetness. Bitter oak and sun-dried tomato are also present. Palate: Features apple/apple juice, pear, orange, apricot, and more lemon citrus, now with grapefruit notes. Malt, vanilla, and toffee are detected. Roasted nuts and oak are prominent. Caramel and cocoa are present, along with white grape. Sun-dried tomato also appears. Ample oak and a subtle hint of baking spice. Finish: The apple/apple juice notes continue. Pear, apricot, and orange are present. Caramel and vanilla emerge. Roasted nuts, cinnamon, baking spice, and oak are noted. It has a moderate duration. I began with an extensive description for what turned out to be a rather straightforward spirit, albeit a very good one. It effectively represents the Lowland style while also strongly reflecting many Highland characteristics. At $54, it was a worthwhile investment to experience this small piece of history. It's the only bottle I've ever seen, and it was worth the effort to salvage it for enjoyment. Recommending a purchase in 2022 is pointless, so I'll simply state it makes for an excellent drink. Score: 3.75/5.

Loved it from the first taste. Even though I knew it was no longer produced, I opened one of my two bottles for my best friend's wedding. Completely worth it! Hints of oak and orange. Its young age was not apparent through alcoholic bite but rather springy notes and a burst of flavor. Much, much better than the 12-year-old version.

The aroma on the nose is quite mild, perhaps a bit faint. Immediately, honey notes are perceived, along with strong floral scents and a significant amount of apple juice in the finish. There isn't much peat, even less so when it's cold. Overall, this is very pleasing.

Born in 1989 - light, smooth, vibrant lemongrass, honey, oats, an easy-going spirit. Mellow throughout, not long-lasting or complex but consistent on the finish. Aged in a decanter.

Glenkinchie 10, Lowland (Classic) 94 pts. Sweet and slightly floral, it is very accessible and easy to drink. Has a lighter body and a very drying finish.

Floral and fruity. On the nose, the spiciness or alcohol seems quite prominent. Smooth with a pleasant finish. Recommended.