Glenfarclas Christmas Edition Review/Tasting

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Glenfarclas Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation Date: December 4th, 2008.
Bottling Date: May 2017.
Age Statement: 9 years old, which is notably younger than the typical Glenfarclas expressions that usually start at 10 years.
ABV: 46%.
Maturation: 100% matured in Oloroso sherry casks, specifically three hogsheads (3032, 3046, 3047) and two Sherry Butts (3048, 3051).
Color and Clarity: Natural color, presented in the typical brown bottle of Glenfarclas.
Bottle Design: Traditional Glenfarclas design, emphasizing its heritage and quality.

Nose: Fruity, intense with an alcoholic note indicating the 46% ABV presence.
Palate: A blend of honey, Nuremberg Lebkuchen (a type of gingerbread), herbal and mild spicy notes, a hint of chocolate, and some sweetness reminiscent of Christmas cakes.
Finish: Full, warming aftertaste without sharp alcohol notes, indicating a well-managed maturation process.
Overall: The whisky is described as fully matured with a balanced, sweet, and spicy profile, making it dangerously sippable due to its comforting and rewarding nature.

The Glenfarclas Christmas Edition is distilled on December 4th, not on Christmas Eve as some might expect from a "Christmas malt." However, it's crafted for the festive season, with a nod to the shared experiences of Christmas, such as sitting in front of the Christmas tree or dealing with family mishaps like Aunt Margaret spoiling the coffee.

Glenfarclas is renowned for its Christmas malts, which are a festive tradition. This edition, although not distilled on Christmas Eve, carries the spirit of the season through its maturation in Oloroso sherry casks, evoking the flavors and aromas associated with Christmas celebrations.

Horst Luening describes the whisky as "dangerously sipping" due to its comfortable and rewarding flavor profile, making it an excellent but potentially perilous choice for continuous enjoyment.
The limited availability of this edition, with only 2,400 bottles on the market, primarily in Central Europe, adds an element of exclusivity.

The Glenfarclas Christmas Edition is a 9-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, matured in Oloroso sherry casks, and bottled at 46% ABV.
It features a rich flavor profile with notes of honey, gingerbread, herbal and mild spicy notes, and chocolate, culminating in a full, warming finish.
The whisky carries the festive spirit, making it an ideal Christmas present, though its limited availability makes it a rare find.
Described as "dangerously sipping" due to its appealing taste, it's a special edition that offers a unique tasting experience.

For the Festive Enthusiast: Individuals who enjoy seasonal or festive-themed whiskies will find the Glenfarclas Christmas Edition particularly appealing due to its rich, warming flavor profile and Christmas storytelling.
For the Collector: The limited availability and unique story behind this edition make it a must-have for whisky collectors, especially those focusing on Glenfarclas or seasonal releases.
For the Sherry Cask Aficionado: Fans of sherry cask-matured whiskies will appreciate the deep, complex flavors imparted by the Oloroso sherry casks used in the maturation process.