Glenesk, another one of the many that closed during the 80s of last century. Its also known as Hillside distillery, which is the name Diageo used on some of their Rare Malts. During its history is has also been known as Highland Esk Distillery, North Esk Distillery and Monstrose Distillery.

Nose:
The other Glenesks I’ve had were bourbon cask matured, but this one is from a sherry butt, which means the nose is totally different from what I know by these guys. Salty sherry, nutty with some fruit. I also picked up cucumber. A combination of sweet and savory which I am usually not too fond of. Also some marispan.

Taste:
The taste is very spicy with lots of pepper and salt. Also some fruitiness here, but it cannot beat the savory taste in any way.

Finish:
Now you get more into the typical realm of sherry casks with a sweet finish. Some woodiness and a bit of fruit. In the end a short revival of bitter chocolate.

A pretty nice whisky with a lot of strange combinations in flavours and smells. Usually I am not too fond of these sweet and savory things, but in this case it works out pretty ok. Quite nice, but not great.

Glenesk 24 – 1983-2008 – 52.1% – Duncan Taylor Rare Auld – 112 euros at Jurgen’s Whiskyhuis and samples available from Pats Wine & Whisky.

Nose: 8
Taste: 7
Finish: 8
Overal Experience: 8
Price/quality: +1

Total: 32 points