Glenrothes 1972 bottled 1996

Nose: Honey, currants, and such a dark, inviting aroma. This is not a light, crisp, with slight hints of honey aroma, this whisky has a big, bold, and inviting aroma that draws you in! Honey and marmalade and big plump currants, and maybe some apples dipped in caramel. Really nice...

Taste: Oh my! There is a lot more to this whisky than just a sweet smell! The flavors are dark, rich, and round. The orange in the marmalade has been candied, bringing out more than just the sugar! The complexity is delightful! The sides of the tongue tingles with a bit of pepper and spice as the tip is tantalized by the sweet candied orange peel! However, there is a dark richness that flows through the mouth, warming, and lingering. A bit of oak, I suppose, more nutty. Walnuts. Toasted walnuts? Like I said, this whisky has a lot going on. The depth of its flavors are really its tribute.

Finish: The orange peel comes back. Maybe a hint of dark chocolate? Slightly citrus, but candied. Something darker, enveloping... Coating my mouth with a deliciousness that doesn't easily go away. Good!

It is hard to compare this whisky to anything else I've had, and I've had a lot. It's the depth of its flavors, and the darkness that are its fingerprints. I've tasted others with "candied orange peel" flavors, but the roundness of this expression is what is so remarkable. I suppose it is the 32 years in the oak cask, but it is something special in the mouth!

I REALLY like this whisky! Not just because it is expensive, or because it is old, or because it is an extinct vintage from Glenrothes, so there is a very minute chance anyone reading this will ever get an opportunity to try it themselves. I really like this whisky because it is a delightfully crafted malt with depth of character. I could drink it all night, except I am trying to nurse this bottle for at least a little while longer!

Find where to buy Glenrothes whisky