Distilled in September of 2005, this Glenlivet has matured in a refill ex-bourbon barrel for 14 years. Sweet, Fruity and Mellow profile.
Nose: Whilst not rose-tinted in colour, this certainly is in aroma – both rose petal and hips are immediately discernible. Vanilla joins buttered toast, brioche and fizzy lemon sherbet for a gentle, but still lively experience. Deeper there aromas of grassiness – leafy greens and gentle pine. The addition of water peps up the sugar content here adding candyfloss. It also brings out some spicy apple and a touch of underlying minerality.
Taste: A surprisingly bold, slightly bitter arrival that has much more impact than the nose implies – Grapefruit, grappa and vanilla alongside liquorice and almonds. Earthiness runs across the palate – soaked soils, damp attics and cellars. The spirit mineral character is now much more pronounced and slightly dusty – not quite chalky, but rather quartz in nature. In the back palate there’s a rush of oak influence – sappy, chips and sawmills. Water softens the initial impact, emphasising vanilla, oak and also pepper.
Finish: Medium in length with tangy pepper, salted limes and a very pleasant lingering fade.
This Glenlivet might be softly spoken on the nose, but the neat palate shouts much louder. Some might consider this one to be in dire need of water (as do I). However, just a few drops will suffice to reduce the heat and prickliness and allow the characterful fruits some space to breath. A dram to take your time over and work out the best balance based on your own preferences and tastes.