Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix

I am sure you remember the story behind this Phoenix. In a nutshell: in january 2010 the roof of several warehouses collapsed and the distillery crew swears they saw the shape of a bird in the light that fell through the damaged roof. Reality dictates, of course, that Scots will not let anything go to waste and used this accident to their advantage, creating a whisky with both sherry and bourbon casks in the mix, aged from 13 to 30 year old. A good story, that more than likely gave the guy at the marketing department that came up with this idea, a fat bonus. But is the whisky any good?

It is certainly an interesting nose. Vanilla, apples, pears, a hint of smoke and sherry. Round and fruity, although it does appear young. Of course, that does not have to be a bad thing. Some Mon Chérie bonbons, both the liqueur and the chocolate, and marzipan. After a few moments, lemon grass, violets and oranges emerge.

It is oily, mouth coating and sweet on ripe apples and apricots, honey, candid sugar and again the hint of smoke. Rather spicy, too. Midpalate, vanilla and caramel take the lead. Very decent malt.

On the finish, the sherry pipes up, supported by spices, and fades in a drying fashion.

This is definitely a good whisky, but somewhat overhyped. It is a good story, surely, which makes this whisky an object of affection for many collectors. In the meantime, this limited edition is long gone, but via auctions you can still get your hands on it. Be prepared to cough up double of the initial price tag of 60 quid, though.

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