This whisky sits at the top of the core single malt range from the world famous Glenfiddich distillery in Speyside. It was re-launched in 2012, although the liquid remained the same as in previous releases. This has been matured in a complex combination of first and second fill ex-bourbon casks, plus a small amount of ex-sherry cask matured whisky. These are married together before being transferred for a short secondary maturation in ex-Caribbean rum casks. It is bottled at 40% ABV and should cost between £175 and £185.
This 21 years old is named Gran Reserva and is released in the bottle used for Glenfiddich’s premium and limited edition whiskies. This bottle is a broader, thicker version of the classic three-sided bottle used for the younger expressions in the core range (ie: the 12 and 15 year old age statements). The secondary packaging includes a sturdy presentation box containing an information booklet.
Glenfiddich is the most famous Scotch whisky distillery and single malt brand in the world. It sells the most Scotch single malt of anyone, although they have been challenged by The Glenlivet in recent years. The distillery is located on the outskirts of Dufftown – the unofficial capital of the Speyside region of Scotland. The name is taken from the Glen Fiddich, the valley in which it lies, and translates as ‘valley of the deer’ from Gaelic.
The distillery is massive with a recent expansion extending the capacity to 21 million litres per year. This makes it Scotland’s largest single malt distillery. Glenfiddich is almost unique in the Scotttish whisky industry as it is still a family owned business. The distillery is owned by the same family that established it – William Grant began construction of Glenfiddich distillery in 1886 and William Grant & Sons was formed in 1903.
Our Tasting Notes
The colour is an orange amber and the nose is rich and sweet. There are heavy sugary aromas to begin with and these are reminiscent of toffee and caramel. Then some sweet vanilla comes through, as do those of dried fruits (especially sultanas and figs), hints of tangy candied orange peel and redcurrants, plus some lovely tropical fruit notes – there is a definite ripe banana aroma and a whiff of mango.
On the palate, this whisky feels creamy, rich and luxurious with a lovely sweetness that coats the mouth. Again this sweetness is driven by the notes of toffee and caramel, plus some crumbly brown sugar. This is complimented by some exaggerated vanilla, which adds to the creaminess. The combination is reminiscent of a good crème brûlée. Add in some crisp red apple for extra depth.
As with the nose, there are other elements which add complexity to the flavour profile – tangy bittersweet orange zest (this gives the whisky as vibrant, fresh lift and stops it being too sweet), dried sultanas and figs, plus a subtle pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg. The addition of water makes it even softer and creamier with the sugary notes seemingly even sweeter. It also brings out a delicious soft baked apple note and hints of that tropical fruit from the nose.
The finish is of decent length and has lovely notes of burnt sugar and toffee, which combine well with the bittersweet orange and sweet vanilla notes. The dried fruitiness is also there and as the flavours of the whisky fade, a distinct drying wood spice rounds things off nicely.
What’s The Verdict?
The Glenfiddich 21 years old Gran Reserva oozes class and is a delicious single malt. There is no getting away from the fact that it is sweet but the complex combination of casks works well and creates a whisky that has plenty of depth and interest beyond that. The extra sweetness beefs up the classic subtle, soft characteristics of the younger Glenfiddichs and the final result is excellent. The packaging also makes this whisky feel very decadent and adds to the overall classy vibe.
