While a 10 Year Old used to be the lower limit for many distilleries around 10-15 years ago, Glenfarclas introduced a single digit expression in 2011: Glenfarclas 8 Year Old. I’m not sure they endorse this young version themselves, as they’re not mentioning it on their website. Not a good sign, right?
Glenfarclas 8 yo (40%, OB +/- 2023)
Nose: very yeasty and bready. Slightly dusty, with a whiff of wet cardboard. Then lots of yellow apples (slightly oxidized) and plenty of hay. Light vanilla and citrus. Hints of schnapps too, with a little wood sharpness. Quite rough.
Mouth: diluted of course, with a vague sweetness and slightly more fruits than the nose suggested. Malty notes, almonds, bittery vanilla and nutmeg. Mid-palate a nice hint of mocha and milk chocolate comes out, along with subtle caramel biscuits and more of the dried grasses that we found on the nose. Later also hints of bitter orange.
Finish: rather short, with marmalade, damp wood and lots of malty notes.
Expectations were low, I must admit. In the end it’s okay, and better on the palate than on the nose in my opinion. Young and basic, so maybe not my recommendation at this price point. Available from The Whisky Exchange or Whiskysite.nl among others.