Just like Balblair, Glenrothes switched to vintages instead of age statements (since 1994). They also have quite a few NAS-releases such as the Select Reserve, Elder's Reserve, Robur Reserve, Sherry Cask Reserve, Alba Reserve and this last one’s successor which we will try today: the Bourbon Cask Reserve. What is not bottled as single malt goes into the blends The Famous Grouse and Cutty Sark, among others.
Surprisingly sweet nose with a herbal side. Loads of vanilla, Pink Lady and Granny Smith apples, but also ferns and even nettles. Peach and coconut kick in firmly. Spices on duty are ginger and cinnamon. Typical nose for a mild summer dram.
On the palate it is, to be honest, a lot less interesting. Very spicy, causing the fruit – that was already on the very soft side – to be completely pushed away. Think pepper, ginger, liquorice and something that reminds me of curry. I get some softening beeswax that keep the tannins under control.
The finish is fairly short and spicy, but loses the typical sweetness I’ve come to expect from Glenrothes.
Fine summer dram on the nose, but on the palate and in the short finish it is a bit too spicy and dry to be really great. Pity.
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