Glenfarclas 17 Years Whisky Review/Tasting

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Glenfarclas Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: Matured in a mix of first, second, and third fill sherry casks. The exact distillation process isn't detailed, but the emphasis on non-coloration and chill filtration is noted.
Age Statement: 17 years.
Color & Bottle Design: Described as having a dark amber color, indicative of its sherry cask maturation. The bottle design specifics aren't mentioned, but Glenfarclas is known for its traditional and elegant presentation.

Balance of Flavors: A complex balance of fruitiness, oakiness, and spiciness with a medium to long aftertaste. The initial sweetness transitions to spiciness and oakiness.
Unique Characteristics: Noted for its sherry fruitiness, strong oakiness which may be mistaken for smokiness, and a variety of flavors including butterscotch, dark fruits like plums, resins, vanilla, toffee, and a hint of cacao bitterness.
Comparison: It's smoother and weaker than the 15-year-old Glenfarclas due to being chill-filtered and having a lower ABV (43%). The 17-year-old is also more expensive and considered to have a slightly different flavor profile due to the maturation process.

Interesting Anecdotes: The 17-year-old Glenfarclas is particularly rare and sought after in Asia, where the number 17 is considered magical. This rarity and cultural significance contribute to its higher price and scarcity in the Western world.

Significance: The Glenfarclas Distillery is highlighted as one of the host's favorite distilleries, noted for being privately owned and not part of a larger conglomerate. This independence is associated with small production and high quality.

Opinions: The host, Horst Luening, expresses a preference for Glenfarclas whiskies aged 15 years and above, suggesting that the quality significantly drops below this age. Despite the higher price and lower ABV, the 17-year-old is still recommended, though the 15-year-old may offer better value.
Quotes: "Glenfarkles is always a buy," indicating a strong endorsement of the distillery's products regardless of the specific age statement.

Glenfarclas 17-year-old is a single malt Scotch whisky, matured in a mix of sherry casks, presenting a complex flavor profile with a notable sherry influence.
It is chill-filtered with an ABV of 43%, described as smoother and weaker than its 15-year-old counterpart.
The whisky is particularly valued in Asia, contributing to its rarity and higher price in the Western market.
The distillery's independence is highlighted as a marker of quality and craftsmanship.
Despite its higher price compared to the 15-year-old, the 17-year-old Glenfarclas is recommended for its quality, with a preference for whiskies aged 15 years and above from this distillery.

For Whisky Collectors: The rarity and cultural significance of the 17-year-old Glenfarclas, especially in Asia, make it a desirable addition to any collection.
For Sherry Cask Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate the rich, complex flavors derived from sherry cask maturation will find the Glenfarclas 17-year-old particularly enjoyable.
For Experienced Whisky Drinkers: The nuanced balance of flavors and the craftsmanship behind its production make this whisky suitable for those with a developed palate and an appreciation for subtlety.
For Value Seekers: While the 17-year-old offers high quality, the host suggests that the 15-year-old Glenfarclas may provide better value for those looking to explore the distillery's offerings without the premium price tag.