redlipwhiskydiary
GlenDronach Original 12 Year
Single Malt — Highlands, Scotland
Reviewed
July 30, 2021 (edited February 23, 2022)
GlenDronach 12 is my first from the distillery that I received from a family member for my last birthday. GlenDronach 12 is aged in Pedro Ximenez and Oloroso sherry casks for a minimum of 12 years.
The intial nose is softly sherried. It opens up nicely with subtle oak and notes of vanilla, baked goods and maple syrup, like a stack of fresh pancakes. After ~15 minutes, the nose settles with sweet stewed plums, allspice and ginger.
This has a spicy first sip in a way that seems more effective at jolting me awake than my morning coffee. A rush of spices wash through an oily baseline of sultana raisin, sherry and subtle brine. A tannic, lightly drying finish lingers with cherry, pepper and bitter oak.
This is an enjoyable sherry cask whisky without being too sweet. I like the pairing of spiciness with enough body and viscosity to support its strength. This might not be my daily go-to, but I appreciate the balance it has for a bold, fruity dram.
7.75/10
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