GlenDronach Cask Strength Batch 7

Actually Batch 8. Toffee flavor sweet and smooth

This was a gift actually of roughly 95% of a bottle from someone who hated it. He hates Macallan, knows I like Macallan (like not love), and says this is similar. I went in to this somewhat skeptical seeing as it got a solid thumbs down. Nose: Raisin abounds with oak, sherry funk, honey, milk chocolate, and toffee. Quite a nose on this and very complex. Almost no ethanol punch which is interesting at over 115 proof. Flavor: Boom! Trail mix! It's like grabbing a handful of trail mix and putting everything in your mouth: First raisins, then boiled peanut, then milk chocolate, and toffee. Wow! Finish: A little spicy with moderately drying oak. Quite a long finish that is somehow raisiny and sweet and tapers in to barrel char and honey. This is truly outstanding. Definitely taking the top spot for me on sherry finished malt whiskey. Super complex and delicious. I highly recommend.

Sees odd that I know I've had this a handful of times, even done a few side by sides and the bottle is still above the label even after this pour. Clearly one I've been taking safe pours with. Nose - Dark berry notes, some musty oak, young spirit, alcohol. A bit of chocolate at the end. Taste - fruity, oakey, young. Water brings out really just a lighter version of the same. I really can't think of anything nice to say about this one. It is ok outside of some younger notes. The sherry flavor is pretty good but it's young. I hate to say it but for over 100 bucks, this isn't just a pass but a hard one. Bonus points for what seem like quality sherry casks and cask strength, but I still am stuck feeling this is a 1 star whisky.