This Glenlivet was distilled in August of 1974 and then matured for 16 years (presumably in an ex-bourbon barrel) until it was bottled in October of 1990.
Nose: Quite an expressive nose, though arguably a touch boozy in places. A combination of old dusty oak and fresh sappy wood are greeted by soured citrus and a fair dose of OBE – pineapples and mangos (sweet, but likewise dusty – you’ll know it when you detect it). The, some grassiness – rather garden-fresh - raindrops on leaves – newly cut grass. Resting only helps to express the overall woodiness of this whisky even further – balsa and corkboard. The addition of water releases some sweetness, indeed it really brings the nose together – cinder toffee and some orange juice.
Taste: Full and weighty, offering both fruit salad as well as some OBE tropicalness – pineapple, mango and guavas. As well as some pangs of sharp and tart citrus there’s some real saltiness here – which is rather unexpected – but quite pleasant all the same. In the back palate, biscuity flavours and also some desiccated coconuts. Water really unlocks this whisky, softening the fruits and making them exceedingly expressive. Salt is reduced, and a touch of white pepper takes its place.
Finish: Medium in length and quite nutty – hazelnuts.
This Glenlivet isn’t a classic by any stretch, and I dare say that some OBE has in fact helped it a touch. Nevertheless, the end result is woody on the nose and fruity on the palate. It is quite transformed by water, which smooths most of the edges an allows the underlying spirit to sing a little louder.