Recently the collaboration between Bowmore and Aston Martin came to an end. Even though this was planned to end after five years, I was surprised there was virtually no pause before Glenfiddich swooped in and announced a partnership with Aston Martin.
They launched two expressions: a 48 year old 1976 Glenfiddich Lagonda (limited to 50 bottles) and the Glenfiddich 16 Year Old we’re trying today. Announced as a limited edition, I’m sure we’re talking thousands of bottles since it’s a worldwide release.
Glenfiddich 16 yo ‘Aston Martin Formula One Team’ (43%, OB 2025, virgin oak + refill bourbon + wine casks)
Nose: hints of honey sweetness along with fresh oak shavings and ginger. Cardamom and pepper too. Then orchard fruits like peaches and pears, as well as some buttery biscuit and subtle hints of raisins. A light winey sharpness, but luckily it stays in the background.
Mouth: now this bittersweet winey and oaky side is a louder. Baking spice to the fore, like nutmeg and ginger, with some herbal elements and a subtle grassy edge. Still a bit of honeyed sweetness or even maple syrup from the newish American oak. Later also toffee and cinnamon.
Finish: medium, with drying hints of walnuts, along with candied ginger, baking spice and some caramelized notes.
Although the price is reasonable for a 16 Year Old collab, the whisky itself it not very special. Especially the virgin oak and wine casks leave a tangy footprint. I bought a sample from Whiskysite.nl. You can also get full bottles from The Whisky Exchange among others.