This is a GlenDronach 2003 selected for The Duchess in Holland. It is not your average GlenDronach as it was matured entirely in a Virgin oak hogshead (and not finished like most other virgin oak GlenDronach).
GlenDronach 13 yo 2003
(53,9%, OB for The Duchess 2016, Virgin oak hogshead #1751, 250 btl.)
GlenDronach 13 yo 2003Nose: starts like a grain whisky, in the sense that it’s full of oak shavings, coconut and vanilla. Cinnamon dusting. Then some lactic notes, a little custard and juicy peaches. Strawberry jam. Syrupy tarte tatin with just a hint of mint.
Mouth: there’s a fruity core (apricots, roasted pineapple) but this is mostly on spices. Ginger, pepper, cinnamon. Then some blackberry leaves and fruit tea. Hints of burnt wood.
Finish: long, very dry, peppery with a bitter woody edge.
Really interesting, a Scotch with flashes of bourbon and grain whisky. You have to like an oaky style though. Around € 85 from Best of Whiskies.
Score: 86/100