GlenDronach Original 12 Year

Gentlemen Pedro Ximenez and Oloroso have done a good job with this Christmas surprise. Sherries, raisins, dates, toffee and dark berries. Christmas cake in a bottle. This is my favourite companion for Christmas. I recommend.

A deep, blood-stained ochre. Thick and oily sheets follow a swirl. Sherry leaps out of the glass, riding the grain-forward nose. Bitter orange and red grapes. Fruity. Enticing. Strong floral notes captivate the senses, like a desert garden. Near-zero ethanol. The palate opens sweet, rich and luscious with juicy raspberry and orange, culminates into a decidedly sharp and drying metallic tang, a bit gingery on later tastes... then fading back into mouth-filling dried fruits – prune, fig, and apricot. Hints of black walnut. The lingering finish carries notes of allspice and ginger. Pleasing and decadent, but imperfect. Sherry-dominated by design, but not a “dessert dram” in my book as the nose and first taste belie an aggressive mid-palate. Enjoyable and I’d recommend for those who like prominent fruit profiles but don't mind a bold and well-spiced adventure to get there, but priced a touch above its competition.

Cheaper maccallan, it’s ok