GlenDronach 1993 19 Y.O. cask #26 (bot. 2012)

sample from a friend.

Nose: Takes a few minutes to really open up. Then it starts on a ton of spice, mince pie, a little coffee, dates. Loads of softly varnished soft (red) leather. That is, this is a classic richly sherried dram. Who could argue with it? Spanish brandy, even with a little salt and a single penny (for those who know the stuff). Cinnamon, nutmeg. Rich spice bread (a little undercooked on the inside, but the exterior slightly singed). Water makes it a touch spicier and more broadly sweet. Sandalwood and cedar emerge as well.

Palate: Spicy on entry, ginger and chili, and then coffee and leather, accounting for the oak. Burned raisins and a little less spice than was on the nose. Same general track. Water turns the 'bitter' notes more fully to coffee and coffee grinds, but a smooth and gentle cup of it. salt. Thick raisin and date jam. Burned and singed spice bread, too.

Finish: All the same, and it just continues. A little dry. Lots of coffee and leather. Some fruit. If you like big sherry bombs, this is a good 'un. And I do.

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