Glendronach, 40 Year Old

Often touted as an outstanding yet somewhat underrated Highland single malt, The Glendronach has recently hit a terrific vein of form with the release of two new, super-aged whiskies, showcasing the talents of master blender, Rachel Barrie. The Valley of Forgue-based distillery has favored bolder sherry-driven whiskies with its past releases (the excellent 18-year-old Allardice and 21-year-old Parliament). The 40-year-old also brings together a small number of hand-selected casks from 1978, 1983 and 1984 and is bottled at natural strength.
Nose
Cherries, cedar, cigar box, plums, vanilla toffee, strawberries
Palate
Red berry compote, hazelnuts, beeswax, black pepper, smoke
Finish
Black pepper, oak spice, beeswax
This opens with a dense mix of cherry, cedar and cigar box notes lifted by orchard fruit and a touch of creamy toffee. The palate is fuller and sweeter than its older sibling, carrying PX richness, red berries and a faint trace of smoke. It stays structured throughout, with a peppery push leading into drying oak. A serious whisky with real presence.
Style
Details