I have had a sample of this whisky sitting on my shelf for I don't know how long, Generously provided by my friend Lee. Now that I am between rounds of our trading group I have the time to finally enjoy it. Glendronach is a Highland distillery known for its spicy profile and high level of quality. Bottled at 46% ABV, non chill filtered and natural color of a tawny copper. Matured in first fill Oloroso sherry casks. The nose is full and intense sherry. Figs/dates, raisins and plums, a real sherry bomb. Caramel and light vanilla. Semi sweet chocolate and fresh coffee notes. Quite mature, but definitely on the sweeter side from those first fill Oloroso casks. Blood oranges, brown sugar and dark cherries. Hardly any oak even after 18 long years. Faint ginger and cinnamon & sugar. Maple syrup after some time and more sherry wine notes. Lovely. The palate is sweet, almost too sweet but not quite, right in the "sweet spot" for lack of a better term. A nice spice profile, again right in the sweet spot. Not overly spicy, but just enough kick to keep your attention. Sherried fruits, mostly dates and raisins. Very light oak and ginger with some maple syrup. The casks have almost completely overtaken the spirit/distillery profile. They do a good job though. Medium bodied and an oily mouthfeel. Mouthwatering and smooth. The finish is long. Sweet and a little peppery. Mouthwatering throughout and full on sherry. This is really not a scotch that is meant to be dissected. It's too good. It should be enjoyed with friends (preferably those who can appreciate a fine scotch) while relaxing or celebrating. Personally I would have liked a little more of an oaky character and a hint of peat, 5-10 ppm, but it's hard to find any other faults here. For the price ($170 locally) it really is a special occasion type bottle. I would definitely buy it for that purpose though. Thanks again Lee, I really enjoyed it. 4.5 Cheers