Glenfiddich Project XX Review
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: Glenfiddich Distillery, Scotland.
- Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
- Distillation & Maturation: A blend of 20 different malt casks selected by 20 whisky experts in collaboration with Malt Master Brian Kinsman. The whisky carries no age statement but is speculated to be around 5 to 7 years old based on its price point and the absence of an age statement.
- Color & Bottle Design: The whisky is presented in Glenfiddich's traditional green bottle, which was not directly described but is known for its iconic triangular shape. The specific color of the whisky was not detailed, but the packaging includes a white box.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- Flavors: The whisky boasts a warm summer fruit aroma, sweet candy floss, and licorice notes. It is recommended to experiment with a flake of sea salt on the side to heighten the taste, although the whisky itself does not contain sea salt. The flavor profile is further described as having vanilla, malt, almonds, cinnamon, and a slight oakiness, developing into a spicy, full, intense mouthfeel with a sugary, fruity aftertaste where licorice notes become apparent.
- Balance: Described as wonderfully balanced and complex, with a rich aromatic profile.
Whisky Storytelling
- Production Process: The unique aspect of Glenfiddich Project XX is its collaborative creation process, involving 20 whisky experts from 16 countries who were given complete freedom to select a single cask from the Glenfiddich warehouse that intrigued them the most. This process was led by Malt Master Brian Kinsman, aiming to create an "unexpected whisky" by blending these 20 distinct casks.
- Series: This whisky is part of Glenfiddich's experimental series, specifically being experimental series number two.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- Geographical Note: The mention of sea salt is tied to a historical note where Glenfiddich matured some whiskies at the Glenglasso distillery, closer to the sea. However, this whisky does not have a direct connection to that process.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- Horst Luening's Opinion: He praises the whisky for its full, intense, and wonderfully balanced flavor profile, highlighting its vanilla, cinnamon, and spicy characteristics. He considers it a bargain for its price.
- Quote: "This unique whisky is a recreation of that extraordinary initial small vatting."
Summary
- Glenfiddich Project XX is a single malt Scotch whisky, a blend of 20 malt casks selected by 20 experts.
- It has a rich flavor profile with notes of summer fruits, candy floss, vanilla, malt, almonds, cinnamon, and a hint of oakiness.
- The whisky is part of an experimental series aimed at creating an unexpected whisky experience.
- It carries no age statement but is speculated to be around 5 to 7 years old.
- The whisky is praised for its balance, complexity, and value for money.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in unique, experimental whiskies will find Glenfiddich Project XX intriguing due to its collaborative creation process.
- Beginners: May appreciate its approachable flavor profile, lacking the intensity of peat or smoke, making it a good introduction to single malts.
- Collectors: Given its position as the second in an experimental series and the unique story behind its creation, it could be a valuable addition to a collection.