Glendronach Grandeur Batch 012 29 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

"...this Grandeur simply changed the whole picture of what sherry whisky could be." - whiskybase.com

Last year’s Grandeur was one of the oldest on record. Batch 12 ups the ante for the second time in a row with a 29 year old matured entirely in oloroso sherry casks. There's been more anticipation for this release than usual - possibly because it's reported to be one of the finest expressions to date. Reviewers on whiskybase.com are wide and varied but generally not easily moved to superlatives. Here's a taste of what you can expect:

"Simply stunning. Lives up to expectations, which at this price is not an easy feat."

"For me the best grandeur from Glendronach. A truly exceptional, powerful and smooth sherry whisky that more than met my high expectations... A dream for every sherry whisky lover!

"Overall: This is magnificent… Perhaps one of the most complex and contemplative drams I have experienced…"

Due to the limited nature of these bottlings, the majority of us won't be able to get past its deep mahogany colour, which is probably the darkest since the series began in 2010. Word has it that it's matched by a richness of flavour that could be mistaken for something partially aged in Pedro Ximenez, if not entirely. It's 100% Oloroso, but from a cask that has exceeded expectations. The yield remains in the realm of genuine limited editions - just under 3000 bottles globally - not tens of thousands. Australia's allocation is a nominal fraction. Reading between the lines tells us Batch 12 will be a high point in luxury sherried single malt for 2023. It's also worth noting that Glendronach's owners, Brown Forman have bucked the trend of big age statement price increases (Batch 11 opened at $1600 in Australia). In short, why buy Macallan 25YO when you can get this? 49.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Collectable.

Notes from the producers.... "Every year since its inception in 2010, each limited edition batch of The GlenDronach Grandeur series has been highly anticipated and acclaimed, revered by connoisseurs and malt whisky aficionados for its character and full-bodied style and this is one of its most luxurious expressions to date... crafted from a bespoke selection of our oldest and most magnificent Oloroso sherry casks. A rich and magnificent overture of sherry aromatics seamlessly flows into seductive cocoa, damson plum and glazed cherry. Spiced bramble and succulent dates meld harmoniously with walnut and fine arabica coffee. On the palate there's a luxurious symphony of raisin and dark plum enrobed in cocoa and treacle. Cherry brandy and espresso crescendo into the triumphant grand finale. A richly rewarding tobacco and sherry-soaked walnut finish. - Dr Rachel Barrie, Master Blender