It was a bit of a dichotomy: A whisky being launched in India to attract a younger crowd was the focus of an evening entertaining folks in their 50s and 60s! And yet, it was a lovely setting at Mumbai’s Breech Candy Club – even if its Arabian Sea view is now interrupted by highways and highrises.
The young lass introducing the whisky was clearly more familiar with Campari than single malt whisky, however, she made a valiant effort. Meghna explained that Arboralis was aged a minimum of 5-6 years, created to be youthful and accessible. What wasn’t said, yet was clearly key, is affordability, with a 750 ml bottle retailing for Rs 3,750 in Mumbai. (For those scratching their heads about the amount – currently this is Eur 35 / USD 40.)
What did we think?
- Nose: Fresh, fruity, floral, vanilla, light nuttiness, effervescent yet sweet
- Palate: Young, lots of pepper, bitter leaves – tobacco?
- Finish: Black pepper
Overall, we found it rather straightforward and inoffensive. Whilst the greeting is friendly with a fruity flavour, there isn’t much on the palate, and the finish dashes off.
To be honest, it was a bit disappointing. I wondered how it compares with the even more affordable Glen Grant The Major’s Reserve 40%?
What more do we know? Glen Grant Arboralis is aged in ex-Bourbon and Spanish Sherry oak casks. With their official tasting notes sharing:
- Colour: Bright Gold
- Aroma: Floral and fruity, dried raisins, honeysuckle, lemon citrus
- Taste: Oak, butterscotch, dried fruits, and light spice
- Finish: Long with malty vanilla, pear, and hints of citrus
Whilst we didn’t fundamentally disagree with their tasting notes, we certainly didn’t find the finish long. And it certainly didn’t linger long enough to discern pear and citrus!
In fairness, we were not the target audience. Amongst us was a former Brand Ambassador for venerable Scottish whisky brands, connaisseurs, and collectors. Our silver hair was out of synch with the desired market.
And yet, we couldn’t complain about the company, the nibbles, the cigars, the pleasure of being outdoors for a pleasant evening in Mumbai!
Let’s face it. We are spoiled. At London’s 2025 Whisky Show, we were treated to such a remarkable range of whiskies that this experience fell short. Rather than grouch, I’ll leave you instead with a cheeky teaser of what could have been a fabulous evening!
Check out the Glen Grant Whisky Flight – Part 1
- Glen Grant 12 year 43%
- Glen Grant 18 year 43%
- Glen Grant 15 year Batch Strength 1st Edition 50%
- Glen Grant Exploration No 1 Rum Cask 48%
Which was followed by more mature expressions in the Glen Grant Whisky Flight – Part 2
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