Bought: Malts of Scotland (now ‘Bartels Whisky’), 16th April 2015
Ratings:
B – Whiskybase (from 1 member vote)
This Glenrothes is the first whisky in my collection to break the 30yo barrier. I thought it was about time I tried something old. On the one hand I’ve heard it said that the best age for a single malt is around the mid-teens. This appears to be backed up by scores in the Whisky Bible. But I then hear remarks about how amazing the occasional vintage whisky is. You also have to keep in mind that a 15yo, unless it’s single cask, probably has older whiskies in it. It’s often this older whisky that adds depth, character and maturity. Therefore it was only a matter of time before I wanted to experience this ancient ingredient.
On Whiskybase there are currently 6 previous bottles of Glenrothes listed by Malts of Scotland, all scoring between 85-90/100. One member has scored my 34yo a ‘B’ with the comment “low cask influence considering its age. I like it though.” Here are his tasting notes:
Nose: Oily with creamy vanilla, fruits and some mineral hues.
Taste: Its jammy [the way i like it] which stays there in deviance
Finish: Soft and spirity despite the amount of old dryish oak – accompanied by vanillas and a pinch of salt