Generously_Paul
Glenfarclas 12 Year
Single Malt — Highlands, Scotland
Reviewed
October 5, 2017 (edited April 9, 2020)
Stop number 38 on the SDT is Glenfarclas. A family owned Speyside distillery rather than corporate owned, Glenfarclas is rather unique in the scotch world. Not only are they independently owned and operated, but they are one of only a handful of distilleries that still uses direct fired stills.
I have reviewed the 10 year old and the 25 and loved them both. Let's see how well this 12 year old fares. Bottled at 43% ABV and as with all Glenfarclas expressions (I believe) it is non chill filtered and natural color. This one is a beautiful golden brown, like a perfectly toasted marshmallow.
A very nice sherry nose to start things off. Dense spiced Christmas fruitcake. Nutmeg, cinnamon and clove. Definite mint and black licorice. Some low levels of fruit, plums and raisins mostly, but also some chocolate oranges and caramel apples. A light nuttiness, maybe almonds. Butterscotch and toffee. Not too complex, but great regardless.
Sweet and lightly spicy on the palate. Minty sherry. The spice level increases a little the more you drink. Charred oak, black tea and baking spices. Mild toffee and butterscotch. Like the nose, it's not too complex, but immensely drinkable.
Light to medium bodied. A light oiliness and mouthwatering.
Medium length finish. Pepper, sherry and tea. Fairly dry
I was in the mood for a sweet sherried whisky tonight, and while this was not exactly sweet, it is very good. From what I remember, this is years above the 10 year old (2 to be exact lol). No bitterness in the finish like the 25 year old, but it lacks the complexity that comes with longer maturation. My love of Glenfarclas has only been strengthened and I still need to try the 17 and 21 year olds. While I would love to give this one a 4, I think a 3.75 is more appropriate. Thanks to Scott for the sample.
Cheers
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@Ctrexman no doubts there. GD is a superior single malt, but you have to give it to Glenfarclas for being a family owned company for as long as they have been around and pumping out a consistently good product
Great review. You seem to be quite the fan. Im liking this but Glendronach walks all over it imo