Glenfiddich 21 Year Old Gran Reserva Rum Cask Finish

The Glenfiddich 21 Year Old got an extra finish in rum casks from the Caribbean. So I expect a whole lot of sweetness. This is the older bottling, by the way. Glenfiddich recently relaunched this 21 Year Old as Gran Reserva.

Yep, the expectations of the nose are fulfilled. While rather closed, a bit of patience reveals a whole panoply of sweet aromas. Vanilla and sugar cane, immediately followed by dried fruits. Hints of plums and apricots. Something grassy. Strawberry jam. Dark chocolate. Some banana and even mango guarantee an exotic twist. Soft, but very inviting.

Unfortunately, the first sip is very watery. But after the initial and very sweet start on pears and oranges, it reveals a spiciness on ginger and pepper, that makes up for a lot. The rum influence becomes obvious. Demarara. Midpalate, I get more citrus, which lifts the malt and prevents the sweetness from going out of control.

The medium long finish on nuts and dried fruits dies on woodspice.

This whisky goes crescendo. It started off soft, but midpalate it opened up to reveal a big, grown-up Glenfiddich, that is not overpowered by the rum.

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