This is the final tasting note from the Bottle-share. And what a one! I already knew this whisky beforehand, because I once tasted it at the Christmas tasting of the Whiskykoning in Den Bosch. I already liked it very much then. A good reason to do it again!

Normally I’m not a fan of Glenrothes, especially not of their own bottlings. I’ve tasted quite a few of them but they have never risen above mediocrity. Independent bottlings usually score a lot higher, even at a young age.

Nose:

Immediate orange — as if someone added Grand Marnier. I noticed a hint of boiled egg somewhere, but I couldn’t rediscover that later. Dried fruit and sherry are also definitely present.

Palate:

Soft, but very drying. With this amount of alcohol I had expected it to be stronger, so that was a pleasant surprise. I also tasted macadamias. Hmm!

Finish:

Wood, milk chocolate, orange and dried fruit. A beautiful combination of flavors that an old sherry whisky should have!

What an incredibly tasty whisky this is! I’m (once again) a bit in love. Everything that a good sherry whisky should have is here, and the high alcohol gives an intense taste (at 43% not just the alcohol but also the flavor is somewhat diluted) without the alcohol ever dominating at any point! Definitely one of the better ones from the bottle-share.

Glenrothes, 28-12-1978 – 27-08-2008, 29 years, Refill Sherry Butt, cask no. 19236, 59.9%, Gordon & MacPhail Reserve.