Wu Dram Clan have had a few relaxed months but now they’re back with a special release. This Glen Garioch 2003 is the first single cask release from the distillery for an independent bottler. I’m always a bit weary of such claims, it all depends how you define it, but it’s a rare sight in any case.
We’re looking at a first fill Oloroso sherry butt which yielded 681 bottles in total. Only 250 bottles are were available through German retailers and the rest sits on the shelves of the distillery shop.
Glen Garioch 21 yo 2003 (53,9%, OB for Wu Dram Clan 2024, first fill Oloroso sherry butt #808, 681 btl.)
Nose: quite powerful, with dark raisins and plums, along with black cherries. Spicy chocolate with bits of hazelnut comes through, as well as herbal honey. Then there’s quite a generous amount of oak spice as well, with firm ginger and nutmeg, whiffs of cedar and a hint of pine resin. Light leathery notes too.
Mouth: even more balanced than the nose suggested. Just a perfect mix of sweeter and drier Oloroso elements, like leather, black peppercorns and plenty of nice tobacco. Then also brighter hints of orange peels, Timut pepper, blackberries, prunes and chestnut honey. Raisins and ginger cake too. Deep flavours and above average complexity, but always in a nicely rounded way.
Finish: long, slightly drier again, with caramelized nuts, pepper, mild espresso and more tobacco.
While the nose suggested a dark and dry whisky, there’s actually a really vibrant side to it on the palate. A nicely creamy, juicy and relatively fruity Glen Garioch with a great balance. Excellent choice. WDC’s partner retailers can be found here but I’m afraid all bottles were gone in the blink of an eye.