Speyside region – 44.6%ABV – $325, US market only
I am about to lose my Glenlivet reviewing virginity.
I don’t know if I’m ready or what it will do to my relationship with The Glenlivet after we do it I review this whisky. I just know that I really-really like the Exclusive Malts range and, I think I’m ready to commit. I’m ready to take this shapely glass into my hands and…
You know, as I typed the above ridiculousness, I realize that it (and by extension I) is no where near as funny an innuendo as Baptize Me from the Book of Mormon Soundtrack. If you don’t know the piece, you should check it out below. Seriously, here it is (funny stuff):
I guess it’s time for me to do it. I’m finally going to review this Glenlivet. Please think well of me in the morning my sweet, sweet whisky…
On the nose – Upon initial sniff I am reminded of that type of woman that lies about her age. Yes, like Leslie Mann from the new movie “This is 40.” Sure she’s 40 but she tells everyone she’s 36 and, you know what, she looks it too.
Funny enough, this is a 36yo whisky but I’d never assume it as such. Sure there are elements of age in here such as wood spice and clean church pews however, there’s a delicate fruity quality and some clotted cream as well that makes it feel younger.
Let’s explore further…
A whiff of smoke in the background adds to notes of over ripe, browning pineapple and some nail polish remover. Model glue meets white sugar in a honey reduction.
So far, I’m impressed.
On the mouth – Presto-chango-alla-kazam, the flavor profile is quite the different animal from the initial nosing impression.
Step back, take a breath, dive in again, Hatton.
Here we go: An oily start but give it ¾ of a second and it starts dry the tongue. Popsicle sticks soaked in the aforementioned nail polish remover, wood spice and brown spice and wilting dandelion stems.
Some tart, white wine like elements here as well. As I try to think of the wine grape I am reminded that I am a whisky reviewer and not a wine reviewer. I will stop all attempts in guessing the wine grape.
Moving on…
And now I am noticing some pepper and hints of artificially flavored banana Laffy taffy. Better yet, banana chips.
Finish – A long finish with, guess what? Hints of wine! This time I *can* tell you that the wine is identifiable by myself and much more dessert like. I’d liken it to a Moscato.
In sum – A bit on the pricey side but also a rarity to find a single cask of Glenlivet (and a 36yo one at that, too).
Don’t let the nose fool you, this whisky will take you on a bit of a ride. What a great, great nose! The flavors were nice as well, I was just not expecting the change. While I’d not choose this as a celebratory whisky, I’d surely reach for it when I had some “me time” and wanted a bit of a change.
This is a fun whisky to drink when you want to really think about whisky and ponder life a bit.
Special thanks to ImpEx for the sample!!