Glenglassaugh 1986 / 28 Year Old / Cask 2101

Until recently, Glenglassaugh released some single casks in their highly acclaimed Rare Cask Series. But with the sale by Billy Walker (who then went on to purchase Glenallachie), I am not sure if we’ll see many more of these rare casks. This is one from the very first batch: a 28 Year Old from 1986 that was released in 2014 and by now has become all but unaffordable. Oh, that color…

Those is rather austere at first and only mildly fruity. But if you leave it to breathe for a while, the reward is massive. Apples, pears, peach and cherries, but also something candy-like that reminds me of Jelly Beans. Loads of earthy notes. A leaf of mint. Marzipan? Lovely hints of oloroso sherry, by the way. In the background you’ll notice a slight whiff of sulpher, but it is so light, that it actually contributes to the experience. That’s a first. Delicious nose.

The body could have been a bit more creamy in my opinion, but the taste is spot on. Wonderfully fruity on baked apples, pears and cherries, upholstered with dried fruits like dades and (to a lesser degree) raisins. Clear notes of Sevilla oranges, almonds and vanilla. Marzipan – which was a bit doubtful on the nose – comes to the fore. Gently spiced on cinnamon and nutmeg. More hints of vanilla and even a little salty edge. Complexity, anyone?

In the medium long finish, a mildly bitter touch from the oak kicks in, but it does not detract from the fun. The dark, dried fruits linger in a screen of woodsmoke.

Absolutely grand Glenglassaugh. Thanks a million, Timon!

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