Glenfarclas 1996 Oloroso Sherry Cask Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Glenfarclas Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured in a mix of first and second fill Oloroso Sherry casks. The pot stills used for distillation are directly fired from below, which is untypical and involves a rummager to prevent particles from baking onto the pot still walls. This process contributes to a smoother whisky.
Age Statement: 19 years.
Color and Bottle Design: The whisky does not use artificial coloring, allowing its color to reflect the mix of cask types used. The bottle design includes a label indicating it was specially filled for Central Europe, with a production of 12,000 bottles. The label also features the phrase "the spirit of independence."

Balance of Flavors: A complex balance of sherry and fruit aromas, with notes of almonds, demerara sugar, and dark chocolate. The whisky is described as having a long aftertaste and being typical of the Glenfarclas style, which is characterized by smoothness and a mix of fruity, sweet, and faintly spicy notes without sharpness.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky's flavor profile benefits from the distillery's unique distillation process, leading to a smoother spirit. The absence of bitterness in the sherry cask influence is notable, as is the long, complex, and mouth-watering aftertaste.

The Glenfarclas 1996 Oloroso Sherry Cask is highlighted for its special filling for Central Europe and its unique blend of first and second fill Oloroso Sherry casks, a decision based on preserving the distillery character against the cask influence. The distillery's commitment to quality and future planning is emphasized, contrasting with the practices of larger, managerially driven companies.

Glenfarclas is portrayed as a distillery with a strong sense of independence and tradition, underscored by its family ownership and long-term outlook. This contrasts with the industry trend towards non-age statement whiskies driven by short-term managerial goals.

Horst Luening, the master taster, praises the whisky for its complexity and recommends taking time to appreciate its aroma before tasting. He ranks it highly among unpeated sherry cask matured single malts from Scotland, indicating its exceptional quality within its category.

Glenfarclas 1996 is a 19-year-old single malt Scotch whisky matured in a mix of first and second fill Oloroso Sherry casks.
It features a complex flavor profile with a smooth, fruity, and slightly spicy character, without bitterness.
The whisky is part of a special filling for Central Europe, emphasizing the distillery's independence and long-term vision.
It is highly regarded by the master taster, who appreciates its quality and recommends savoring its aroma and flavor.

For Connoisseurs: The complexity and unique distillation process make this whisky appealing for experienced whisky enthusiasts looking for depth and a distinctive distillery character.
For Sherry Cask Fans: Those who appreciate the influence of sherry casks on whisky will find the balance of first and second fill casks intriguing.
For Collectors: The limited production and special filling for Central Europe may make this bottle a desirable addition to collections, especially given its positive reception by experts.