Glenlivet The Master Distiller's Reserve

Time to sample my first The Glenlivet! This brings me back to Speyside. The Master Distiller's Reserve is 40% ABV, NAS, and I consider it an entry-level offering. It's matured in three casks, which is evident in the flavor profile. On the nose, I detected a distinct, ripe, and slightly sweet pear note with orchard honey. I had heard people mention pear notes from The Glenlivet, but I didn't expect them to be so clear! Fudge notes were also present. My palate immediately picked up a good amount of oak, which I enjoy. It blended with general spice and had some tangy pear notes in the background. The finish primarily offered sherry notes, with tannins that were more bitter than dry, and still-present spices. Compared to the nose and palate, the finish was less complex. This is something I've observed in 40% ABV NAS drams. Nevertheless, it was enjoyable and will serve as a pleasant, casual sipper!

This is the most affordable option in Glenlivet's Master Distiller's Reserve travel retail series. 40%abv. On the nose: fresh Wood, Herbal aromas, damp Forest, faint Vanilla. On the palate, Oak and Pepper. That is all. Aftertaste medium, pepper and clove. Needed to add water to see if it could offer anything else: Water reveals a faint and "spicy" apple on the palate Overall I rate this dram a 78 out of 100

When I first tried this, I thought it resembled the Balvenie 12yo Doublewood, but later tastings made me reconsider. It presents a fruity (pear) aroma, and the palate is also fruity but gentle, with a sharper but not excessively long finish. I'd rate it between 3 and 3.5 stars; once it's gone, I wouldn't repurchase it.

The nose is rather unimpressive, smelling quite cheap and harsh. The taste is marginally superior, offering a hint of orange. I find it necessary to add a bit of water to appreciate this whiskey, as it softens the sharp character. I should have spent a bit more to obtain a 12-year-old Glenlivet instead of this, which seems like a rejected travel exclusive.

The distinct pear aroma on the nose is surprising and delightful. Pear was also present in the flavor, particularly after dilution. I detected a pleasing bitterness, akin to orange peel. Long finish.

A pleasant surprise from a tasting of 11 whiskies. Very easy to drink! It strongly resembles the Balvenie DoubleWood 12 with its full body and significant sherry influence. I was quite certain this would be poor whisky before tasting it. What a fantastic surprise!