It has been a while since I picked up a Glenfarclas – one of those familiar friend whiskies that are a staple of any well-stocked bar. Now I will admit to having a soft spot for Glenfarclas – as they have remained a family-owned independent distilllery – across several generations – six and counting! So when I spotted this special release just for Germany I was lucky to get a bottle before it sold out!

Glenfarclas is known for using sherry casks and has kept a consistent range of expressions over the years – not veering into wild experimentation – instead sticking to tried and true traditional methods and maturation approaches.

This is why I thought it fitting to include this expression in our sherry evening in Nurnberg… and where we started our tasting evening!

Glenfarclas 12 year (2009/2021) 46% (Whisky.de Clubflasche)

• Nose – Unmistakable sherry nose yet balanced, caramel, figs, dates, some sweet spices, raisins, a bit of sulfur/rubber with licorice, some maritime elements with a salty touch… overall light spice, sherry sweet with enough other elements going on to make it interesting
• Palate – Much subtler than expected, nutty, and most enjoyable, perhaps even a hint of fresh tobacco leaf, it isn’t heavy yet quite well-rounded, and there is some oak joining the slightly salty nuts
• Finish – A bit of spice lingers
• Water – Not necessary but opens up nicely with!

While sometimes Glenfarclas can have an edge (especially the 105!), this one was smooth and satisfying. The longer it spent in the glass, the more enjoyable it became. With the revisit after sampling other sherry drams, we concluded it is simply a solid performer.

I purchased this whisky in October 2021 from whic.de for Eur 60.

Curious about other Glenfarclas experiences?

• 10 year “Family Cask” (17 May 2012 / 20 May 2022) Sherry Hogshead #2504 60.9% (LMdW)
• 12 year 43%
• 15 year 46%
• 21 year 1.208 “Long Conversations by the crackling log fire” (1997) 54.3% (SMWS)
• 21 year 43%  
• 25 year 43%
• 40 year 46% 
• Glenfarclas 105 NAS 60%, Nov’15 & Mini Oct’17
• Glenfarclas evening in Mumbai with George S Grant

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