Glenrothes Decanter Review by Horst Luening

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The whisky is from the Glenrothes distillery.
Type: Single malt Scotch whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Distilled on June 2nd, 1997, and bottled on February 2nd, 2017, making it nearly 20 years old. It was matured in ex-sherry casks, likely used for finishing for a few months.
Age Statement: Approximately 19.5 years.
Color and Clarity: The whisky is quite dark, indicating sherry cask maturation, but not the darkest, suggesting it's not a first-fill Oloroso cask.
Bottle Design: Packaged in a Hibisco decanter, known for its excellent surface and thick bottom, adding perceived value. The decanter was traditionally used for Edradour distillery whiskies before Signatory Vintage began using it for other malts.

Balance of Flavors: The whisky is described as complex and full, with a balance between sherry influence, maritime notes, and nuttiness.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its intense, deep flavor despite a lower ABV of 43%. It has a maritime smell, which is unusual and intriguing.
Comparison: Compared to other Glenrothes vintages, particularly a 1997 vintage bottled at 46% ABV by Horst Luening's company, this version is slightly chill-filtered and presented at a lower ABV.

Signatory Vintage: The name and logo (a writing feather) come from the original idea of having each cask signed by a prominent person, a practice that was quickly abandoned due to high demand and the difficulty of finding willing signatories.
Hibisco Decanter: Initially exclusive to Edradour distillery whiskies, Signatory Vintage expanded its use to other malts, like this Glenrothes, marking a significant shift in tradition.

Hibisco Name: The decanter's name, Hibisco (Italian for hibiscus), suggests a connection to beauty and perhaps the exotic, aligning with the decanter's elegant design and the whisky's rich flavor profile.

Horst Luening describes the whisky as "intense, deep, full flavor," highlighting its complexity and the successful integration of sherry cask maturation.
On chill filtration: "Chill filtration is not bad. It is part of an evolution over the centuries of whiskey making," suggesting that it can even improve the taste in some cases.

The Glenrothes Decanter by Signatory Vintage is a nearly 20-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, matured in ex-sherry casks.
It features a complex flavor profile with sherry influence, maritime notes, and nuttiness, presented in a beautifully designed Hibisco decanter.
The whisky's production and presentation are tied to interesting stories about Signatory Vintage and the use of the Hibisco decanter.
Expert opinions highlight the whisky's quality and the nuanced view on chill filtration.

For Collectors: The unique Hibisco decanter and the story behind Signatory Vintage make this a collectible item.
For Sherry Cask Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate the depth and complexity that sherry cask maturation brings to whisky will likely enjoy this Glenrothes.
For Experienced Whisky Drinkers: The nuanced flavor profile and the craftsmanship involved in its production make it a must-try for seasoned whisky aficionados.