Glenfarclas Vintage 2000/2013 Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Glenfarclas Distillery, privately owned, established in 1836.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Matured in first and second fill sherry casks. The specific type of sherry casks (beyond some being oloroso for a previous vintage) is not disclosed.
Age Statement: 13 years old, bottled on November 20th, 2013.
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the strong sherry influence suggests a rich, deep color.
Bottle Design: Limited edition, with only 6,000 bottles produced. The design specifics are not mentioned, but premium editions from Glenfarclas typically feature distinctive labeling that highlights the vintage and cask type.

Balance of Flavors: A harmonious blend of sherry sweetness, oak spiciness, and nutty undertones, with a notable absence of bitterness from the oak.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky exhibits a strong sherry influence right upon opening, with a complex profile of sugary sweetness, spiciness, and a variety of nutty flavors, leaning towards the softer, oilier types like macadamia. Vanilla notes suggest the presence of first fill sherry casks.
Comparison: This vintage is distinct from Glenfarclas's standard age-statement bottles (15, 21, 25 years) as it is matured in 100% sherry casks, offering a different and more intense flavor profile.

Anecdotes: Horst Luening, the master taster, shares his experience of tasting a 1962 family cask from Glenfarclas, emphasizing the distillery's capability to produce intensely flavored, sherry cask-matured whiskies that can age gracefully for decades.
Production Insights: The distillery's cautious approach to cask selection and its ample stock for future maturation are highlighted, suggesting a commitment to quality and long-term whisky production.

Historical Context: Glenfarclas, established in 1836, is one of the few remaining family-owned distilleries in Scotland, with a storied history of producing single malt Scotch whisky.
Geographical Note: The whisky is primarily available in the European market, with limited international distribution, making it a sought-after item for collectors and enthusiasts outside Europe.

Horst Luening's Opinion: He considers 13 years to be nearly perfect for achieving an intense cask aroma without the bitterness that can come from longer maturation in sherry casks.
Quote: "Is 13 years a good age for such a potential whisky? I think it's long enough to have an intense cask aroma but it's short enough not to have this bitterness from the sherry casks."

Glenfarclas Vintage 2000/2013 is a 13-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, matured in first and second fill sherry casks.
It features a rich flavor profile dominated by sherry sweetness, oak spiciness, and nutty undertones, with a notable absence of oak bitterness.
The whisky is part of a limited edition range, with only 6,000 bottles produced, primarily available in the European market.
Glenfarclas's commitment to quality and its capability to produce whiskies that age gracefully are emphasized.
Horst Luening considers the 13-year maturation period nearly perfect for this whisky, balancing intense flavors without undue bitterness.

Sherry Cask Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate the rich, sweet, and complex profile typical of sherry cask-matured whiskies.
Collectors and Connoisseurs: Limited availability and unique profile make it appealing for collectors and those seeking distinctive whiskies.
Intermediate to Experienced Whisky Drinkers: The complexity and strength (58.5% ABV) may be more appreciated by those with some experience.