Glen Elgin 12 Year Old

Glen Elgin is somewhat of a forgotten malt in the Diageo canon - you cannot get distillery bottlings here in Ontario. But it is often considered more deserving than Cragganmore of being their Speyside selection in their Classic Malt range, and this standard 12 year old expression certainly bears that out.

The nose is incredibly fruity and malty, very vibrant and exciting. Sharp vanilla, raisins, coconut, and a fair bit of oak for a 12 year old.

On the palate, darker fruits and oak for sure - it tastes older than 12. But that is balanced by beautiful floral notes. Very soft and luscious. More malt in the mouth than on the nose, believe it or not. Rosehip and resin - a great interplay between the spirit and the wood. Water gives it a creamier mouthfeel but does little to the flavour and nose profiles. Which is fine as those profiles are lovely enough already.

Medium-length finish, not overpowering, floral with gentle waves and a bit of spice at the back. The 12s of Glenfiddich and Glenlivet are always considered the "entry level" single malts but this Glen Elgin deserves that label - so vibrant, fruity, dangerously drinkable. Could use a little more bite, to my liking - but it's a fine young Speysider.

Part II will look at a 12 year old Glen Elgin, bottled by Duncan Taylor for their Dimensions series, at 46% ABV - this will be reviewed another day!

Find where to buy Glen Elgin whisky