Glengoyne 15-Year-Old Whisky Review
DISCLOSURE -THIS ITEM WAS GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW. ALL THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ARE THE REVIEWER’S OWN.
Reviewed by Colin Hewitt
I’ve always enjoyed a tumbler of fine whisky or bourbon, especially in the autumn and winter months. To me, there’s nothing better than the warming feeling whilst curled up reading a good book. When offered the opportunity to sample a bottle of Glengoyne 15-Year-Old Whisky, I jumped at the chance.
I must admit I didn’t know too much about the Glengoyne distillery, but that was easily rectified by having a look around their beautiful website https://www.glengoyne.com/
I’d especially recommend ‘The Glengoyne Way’ section. It’s a treat. You can feel the world slowing down as you read their carefully selected words. As they say, ‘Unhurried since 1883’. In addition, the ‘Our Legacy’ section has a wonderful selection of vintage photographs depicting the history of the company.
But, enough of their history and legacy, what about the product in hand?
The heavyweight bottle arrived in a beautiful presentation box – especially welcome if the item is to be gifted.
The first thing to strike me was the light amber, almost golden colour. All whisky matures in oak barrels for a period. This process affects the colour and taste of the final product. Part of the alchemy of whisky production, and this truly is liquid gold, is selecting the correct barrels for the spirit to mature in.
This Glengoyne whisky matures in first-fill sherry and bourbon casks for 15 years. A first-fill cask is one that has been used to mature sherry or bourbon and is being used to mature a spirit for the first time. The oak cask still keeps the residual flavour of the original product, which it imparts onto the maturing whisky. The Glengoyne process also includes maturing in refill casks, a refill cask being one that has already been used to mature whisky.
The smell, or nose, surprised me, being much fruitier, and almost toffee-like compared to most whiskies I drink. Bizarrely, it reminded me of Christmas.
The taste, or palate, was extremely smooth and delicate with (again, the Christmas feel) hints of citrus, malt, and possibly cinnamon.
The lingering taste, or finish in whisky parlance, was again very delicate, with the oak flavour coming to the forefront.
In summary, delicious.
When I came to decide a rating, because of its price, I struggled. There’s no denying that this is an expensive whisky, and I’m sure many would balk at such extravagance, especially in the current financial climate. However, having sampled it, I can really appreciate the difference between this and the usual, much cheaper whiskies and bourbons that I regularly purchase. Therefore, if you can afford it, why not spoil yourself or someone else on a special occasion? For the right person, and only you can really decide if it’s correct for them, this is a gift that will last, and they will truly savour. I’ll certainly be having a few drams over the Christmas period, and hopefully there will be some remaining for Burns Night in January. Although I’ll be enjoying it neat and pouring something a little more economical over the haggis.
Rating: An indulgent, but worthy 5/5
Bottle size 70cl
Alcohol strength 43% vol
RRP: £79.00
This product can be purchased here.