I've found the Glendronach 12 to be a competent and enjoyable sherry-style Scotch, the 15 to be a disappointment (nice nose that doesn't translate to the palate), but this 18 has been an eye-opener. This is a 2019 bottling so it's apparently actually 24 years+ in age.
Very darkly sherried / brown.
Nose
This is a real sherry bomb, and very sweet on the nose, although I will say it lacks complexity compared to some other 18 year-olds like Arran 18 or Bunnahabhani 18. The nose is caramelized apples, toffee, milk chocolate, cognac, sherry, raisins, plums. There is a slight bit of spice: mulled wine (cinnamon, cloves, red wine, tannin, port wine, apple cider), but the spice is a bit hidden.
Palate
Mouthfeel is rich, full, round, soft, and leathery. Very balanced sweetness of toffee, candied fruits, chocolate. A spice kick at the end. Delightful and doesn't need water.
Finish
A nice finish of decent length, if not complex.
The first night I opened this, I fell in love with it and drank far too much (about 4 drams). This is really easy to enjoy. I also instantly went out and bought two more bottles -- partially because I'm concerned about what happens in 2020 bottling when it reverts back to a "true" 18yo. However, in subsequent tastings, especially blind tastings, I've found that it is indeed lacking in complexity. In a blind tasting with Arran 18 and Bunnahabhain 18, the other two clearly had more complexity and interest on the nose and palate (with Bunna winning and Arran coming in second). I therefore lowered the Glendronach 18 from an initial score of 90 to 87. It is still clearly in the "great" category and I do love it, but I can't say it's the best in its category. I will say that it's a huge step up from the 12 and 15.
Score
87 / 100
0-50 Subpar
51-60 Drinkable
61-70 Decent
71-80 Good
81-90 Great
91-100 Fantastic
| Country | Scotland |
|---|---|
| Region | Highland |
| Brand | Glendronach |
| Distillery | Glendronach Distillery |
| Title | Allardice |
| Abv (%) | 46 |
| Age | 18 |
| Cask Type | Sherry |
Loading related reviews...