Glenfiddich 15 Year Old Solera Reserve

This review was done shortly after the Aberlour 16 DC review. I decided to write this review in comparison to Aberlour 16.

Color: An orange-amber.

Nose: Initially I acquired strong notes of dark fruits especially berries in the way of raspberries. Vanilla also shows up in the beginning. With time, I noticed extended dark fruits in the way of raisins and plums. Spices are starting to appear: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice comes along in an oxidized nose.

Body: I noticed a medium-full texture with a gentle tingle as it rolls on the tongue.

Taste: Fall baking spices and sherry-themed fruits are at the forefront. Vanilla and oak take a little bit of the back seat. Caramel and honey can be found with consecutive sips. This is one of the more sweeter tastes I've experienced, its very noticeable.

Finish: A warming slightly lingering finish, with spicy oak and pepper. Sweet vanilla, dark honey, and sherry intermingle as the finish subsides.

Overall: I do find this close to the Aberlour 16 that I had not too long ago but I find the Glenfiddich is lacking in intensity in comparison. As I find the Aberlour 16 a little more complex on the nose with spicy-fruity notes with hints of nuts and floral scents. It was also a little spicier and a little less sweet on the taste yet beautifully balanced. The Solera system used for the Glenfiddich combines sherry and ex-bourbon aged whisky into a vat of new virgin oak which produces lots of flavors and scents but it doesn't magnify any of them like the Aberlour 16s blending seems to do (at least for me anyway.) yet they both produce excellent balance. Or maybe since the Aberlour 16 was bottled at a slightly higher proof makes it slightly more intense. Either way I give the Aberlour 16 a slightly higher edge then the Glenfiddich 15.

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