Glenlivet 14 Year Cognac Cask Selection

I have sampled much Glenlivet, but I don't recall ever trying a cognac-finished whisky. This was an unplanned purchase for $49.99 at Costco. Tasted neat from a tasting glass after resting for several minutes. The aroma presents apple skin, slightly unripe white grapes, orchard fruit, a hint of ethanol, powdered sugar, and damp autumn leaves. It has a very pleasant scent, somewhat intricate and warmly inviting. My experience with Glenlivet is that it's generally an inoffensive dram. From the 12 year to the 21, they are all nicely balanced and easy to drink. This suggested more of the same. The texture is silky, soft, and without unpleasant spice. There is minimal heat and it feels slightly thin. The flavor starts with cereal notes, bready sweetness, grape must, plum, and ripe fruits. There's a hint of ginger and mild white pepper. The finish is moderately long, very smooth, and without noticeable hot spice. This is an extremely easy sipper. It's good, but not exceptional. It's flavorful, possesses some complexity, and no one would dislike this bottle. The cognac finish adds interest to what might otherwise be a forgettable but palatable drink. This is slightly better than average for scotch whisky under $60 in my local market, but it's not a game-changer. I will finish the bottle but likely won't repurchase it. All that noted, I think this could be an interesting whisky for experimentation in a Vieux Carré, replacing the typical rye and cognac combination. I suspect it would offer an intriguing variation on a classic cocktail. I'll share my findings!

A gift from a neighbor. This might be the perfect balance of Glenlivets. The price is better, and it's more mature (balanced) than the younger versions; it's not exciting, but that's a good thing. Sunshine, roses, honey, and sweet hardwood notes. This is an easy-drinking spirit that is sweet, smooth, and just a little salty. It might be too simple for its price for someone who prefers bourbon and is always seeking the next bottle. However, this is good. While I'd pick another scotch at the same price, this is likely comparable to another well-regarded bottling for a slightly lower cost?

Nose - orange and pear, with a tingle Taste - very sweet and smooth Finish - short and sweet, flavors echo from the palate Score - 3.5, overall a very sweet beverage Scoring Guide 5.0 - Outstanding, incomparable 4.5 - Excellent, a constant staple if possible 4.0 - Very good, highly enjoyable, a reliable choice 3.5 - Good, would sample again 3.0 - Average 2.5 - Acceptable, still drinkable 2.0 - Inferior, drinkable but not pleasurable 1.5 and below—would avoid unless absolutely necessary

Nose: notes of fruit, dried fruits, white grape, orange peel, subtle malt, vanilla, a light woody hint, and the faintest floral touch. It's not an overwhelmingly complex nose, but it's a solid, classic scotch aroma. Palate: continues with the fruity notes, dried fruits, baking spices, a pleasant sweet malt essence with a hint of vanilla and coats the tongue moderately. There's a mild ashy barrel char with a touch of pepperiness on the medium-length finish. Overall, a respectable scotch. It won't blow you away, but it's certainly drinkable.

The aroma is fruity with fresh berries, some zest, caramel, and cloves. On the palate, spices are immediately noticeable, followed by a sweet grape flavor, almost like raisins, with almond and cinnamon. The finish is well-balanced. This is my favorite Glenlivet to date, preferred over the 12, 15, or 18 year olds. It's more intricate and distinct in character compared to them.

It brings to mind a walk through the grass with my nephew, who shared his sweet tarts and fruit snacks. We ate so many that my mouth felt a little raw. Overall, a very light and easygoing experience! The flavor profile is quite unique to me.