Tasting Note:
- Appearance: Rich, dark gold with hints of amber, suggesting a long and gentle maturation process. The liquid is viscous and coats the glass, hinting at a smooth and luxurious texture.
- Aroma: A symphony of aromas unfolds with each breath. Ripe orchard fruits like pears, apples, and peaches dance with hints of honey, vanilla, and a touch of cinnamon. Subtle floral notes of heather and lavender add a touch of elegance. As the aroma opens up, deeper notes of toasted oak, leather, and a hint of sherry emerge, hinting at the whisky’s complex history.
- Palate: The first sip is an explosion of creamy smoothness, coating the palate with a luxurious embrace. The initial sweetness of honey and vanilla quickly gives way to a harmonious interplay of flavors. Dried fruits, raisins, and dates mingle with hints of ginger, nutmeg, and a touch of cinnamon. The oak influence is present but subtle, adding depth and complexity without overpowering the other notes.
- Finish: The finish is long, lingering, and incredibly satisfying. The warmth of ginger and spice lingers on the tongue, joined by notes of honey, oak, and a touch of sherry. It fades slowly, leaving a memory of warmth and richness.
Overall, Glenfiddich 18 Year Old is a masterpiece of balance and complexity. It is smooth and approachable yet still offers a depth of flavor that rewards exploration. The subtle interplay of fruit, spice, and oak creates a truly memorable drinking experience. This is a whisky for those who appreciate quality and craftsmanship, and one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.
Food Pairing:
Glenfiddich 18’s complex and balanced profile makes it a versatile pairing partner for a variety of dishes. Here are some suggestions to tantalize your taste buds:
Savory:
- Grilled Venison Chops: The rich and earthy flavors of venison pair beautifully with the subtle oak and fruit notes of Glenfiddich 18. The whisky’s sweetness helps to balance the gamey flavors of the venison, while the oak adds a touch of smokiness.
- Roasted Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce: The tender duck and sweet cherry sauce complement the honey and vanilla notes of the whisky. The oaky character adds a touch of complexity, while the fruitiness of the sauce mirrors the whisky’s dried fruit notes.
- Seared Scallops with Truffle Butter: The delicate sweetness of scallops contrasts perfectly with the whisky’s richness and spice. The truffle butter adds a touch of earthiness that complements the oak notes of Glenfiddich 18.
- Aged Gouda Cheese: The sharp and nutty flavor of aged Gouda stands up to the whisky’s complexity. The sweetness of the whisky cuts through the saltiness of the cheese, while the oak adds a touch of depth and richness.
Sweet:
- Dark Chocolate Mousse: The decadent chocolate mousse pairs perfectly with the deep, complex flavors of Glenfiddich 18. The whisky’s sweetness complements the chocolate’s bitterness, while the oaky notes add a touch of smokiness to the dessert.
- Gingerbread Cake with Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting: The spicy and warm gingerbread cake pairs well with the complexity and spice of Glenfiddich 18. The whisky’s sweetness complements the gingerbread’s spiciness, while the honey and vanilla notes add a touch of richness to the dessert.
- Caramelized Pear Tart: The tart and tangy caramelized pear tart pairs well with the sweetness and acidity of Glenfiddich 18. The whisky’s honey and roasted oak notes complement the tart’s sweetness, while the acidity helps to balance out the richness of the tart.
- Avg Price (ex-tax)
- $ 92 / 700 ml / 40% abv
We marry our 18 year old in small batches of no more than 150 casks. Every batch is individually numbered and carefully watched over. Each has extraordinary consistency and character from an intense marrying period, and a warming, distinguished finish.
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