Glendronach 12 vs Glenfarclas 15
Alright, so it’s not a fair fight. The Glenfarclas has 3 years over the Glendronach, but while the Glendronach is matured ‘in a combination’ of PX and olorosso sherry casks, the Glenfarclas might have been a vatting of sherry and other casks.
But anyway I agreed to taste the Glendronach 12, and I have the Glenfarclas open at the wonderful La Maison Du Whisky, here goes:
Glendronach 12 yo
Nose: A bit feinty, but marmalade and caramel come through. Fresh cream. Nice round oiliness. Kendal cake.
Palette: Spirity again, zesty at best. leather polish and sweet warm toasty notes.
Finish: Medium, spicy.
Glenfarclas 15yo
Nose: Heavy with a nutty buttery weight. Walnuts? Dates and toffee sauce. Quite refined. Also quite fresh, fresh fruits. White pepper.
Palette: Those fruitcake notes expected from the nose. More citrus peel, ginger and a bittersweet herb, licorice?
Finish: Long and dry spices.
Two good whiskies, perhaps it’s a little unfair to be judging them against one another, but the Glendronach is certainly the more boisterous and active of the two. Refinement however can be found with the Glenfarclas, and the 15 yo would make an excellent contemplative after dinner drink.
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