Released in the U.S. at the end of last year alongside The Glendronach Master Vintage 1993, The GlenDronach Cask Strength Batch 8 is another likely honeypot for those who like their scotch whisky with a sherry influence. In the case of Batch 8, the whisky has been aged for 10 years in Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso Sherry casks.
Its nose has pruney, raisiny top notes with vanilla fudge and marzipan, plus an undercurrent of dry, savory sherry. It proves just as viscous and tongue-coating as honey on the palate, with a rich and creamy start that recalls vanilla fudge, vanilla cream icing, and even something like marshmallow fluff. But it rapidly dries out toward the center where nuts, raisins, and prunes emerge as the experience turns sharp and tannic.
By the back of the palate, the sherry is in the driver’s seat and the experience has changed considerably with the warm heat of brandy-soaked figs and dates. A snap of cinnamon serves as the catalyst for the sherry-soaked finish, which never feels “hot” but is rather warm and long lasting, floating on a current of liquor-soaked dark fruits and nutty sherry that makes for a very satisfying conclusion.
★★ ★★
Stats:
— 61% ABV
— $95
