Whisky Review/Tasting: Glenglassaugh 30 years
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: Glenglassaugh Distillery, Highland, Scotland.
- Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
- Distillation & Maturation: This whisky is a blend of several casks, including first-fill Oloroso sherry butts, showcasing an average taste profile from the different casks used. It is one of the last bottles produced before the distillery's closure.
- Age Statement: 30 years.
- ABV: 44.8%.
- Color & Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the influence of Oloroso sherry casks suggests a rich, amber color.
- Bottle Design: Features a drop-shaped bottle with a heavy glass bottom and a metallic top on the cork. The bottle is numbered (this one being 393 out of 1002), indicating its limited edition status.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- Balance of Flavors: A complex and full flavor profile with a balance between sweetness, fruitiness, and oakiness.
- Unique Characteristics: Rich sherry aromas, creamy fudge, toffee, boiled sweets, dark fruits, peaches, mango, resins, figs, and a light bitterness of orange peel reminiscent of marmalade.
- Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, the emphasis on Oloroso sherry maturation suggests it may share flavor profiles with other sherried whiskies, albeit with a unique complexity and depth due to its age and the distillery's history.
Whisky Storytelling
- Distillery History: Glenglassaugh Distillery has a tumultuous history, having been mothballed during the Great Depression and used as a storage facility before being sold multiple times. It was eventually acquired by Inter Trading, a South African beer company, joining a conglomerate of small and boutique whisky distilleries.
- Production Anecdotes: The whisky is one of the last bottles from before the distillery's closure, making it a rare find. It was limited to 1002 bottles, making each bottle a collector's item.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- Highland Distillery: Glenglassaugh's location in the Highlands of Scotland and its history of closure and reopening contribute to its mystique and rarity.
- Sherry Influence: The use of Oloroso sherry casks from Spain adds a layer of cultural exchange and influence, showcasing the impact of sherry on Scotch whisky flavor profiles.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- "Glenglassaugh is a rare and enduring Highland Malt that has been crafted by the elements, not by the men."
- "Full of character and complexity, Glenglassaugh 30 years old has rich sherry aromas and hints of creamy fudge toffee and boiled sweets."
- "Oloroso sherry is one of my favorites... It combines perfectly with whisky."
Summary
- Glenglassaugh 30 years is a rare single malt Scotch whisky from the Highland region, aged in first-fill Oloroso sherry butts.
- It features a complex flavor profile with rich sherry aromas, creamy fudge, toffee, and a variety of fruits and spices.
- The distillery has a rich history, having been mothballed and reopened, adding to the whisky's rarity and value.
- The whisky is presented in a limited edition bottle, with only 1002 bottles produced.
- Expert opinions highlight the whisky's complexity, character, and the perfect balance achieved through Oloroso sherry cask maturation.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- Whisky Collectors: Given its rarity, limited production, and unique history, this whisky is a must-have for collectors.
- Fans of Sherried Whisky: Those who appreciate the rich, complex flavors imparted by Oloroso sherry casks will find this whisky particularly enjoyable.
- Experienced Whisky Enthusiasts: The depth and complexity of this 30-year-old single malt make it a rewarding choice for seasoned whisky drinkers seeking something special.