Only the second outing for Glendullan this year (84.27 is still available). Matured in a refill ex-bourbon hogshead since 2009. Sweet & Spicy profile.
Nose: A combination of ripe and underipe fruits – primarily orchard (apple and pear). These are joined by coppery youth – not quite feinty, but certainly metallic like two pence pieces. In the background, buttered scones and sugared pancakes with a lemon juice topping. Rather light an unassuming in style. The addition of water improves the expressiveness of the nose greatly – maple syrup, toast and marmalade. Richer, deeper and altogether more pronounced.
Taste: There’s much more impact on the palate with a bold arrival delivering malt loaf, gingerbread and cream crackers. Again, metallic copper/brass is suggestive of youth – perhaps even moreso than the nine year old age statement. The development is extremely brief, but offers both salt and pepper seasoning alongside background charred oak.
Finish: Medium with white pepper, dusty minerals and aluminium cans.
A straight-forward Glendullan that makes up for its youthfulness and lack of development with some solid simple refreshing flavours. Nothing to shout about, but perfectly tasty enough as an opener to an evening.