Glenfarclas 1986 The Family Casks (S16)

Glenfarclas 1986 The Family Casks (S16), 30 YO, 56.4%

Matured in a single refill ex-sherry butt (cask #3452), bottled 2023-07-26, and limited to 532 bottles.

Nose: Deep, sweet and earthy notes of dried fruits. A touch of spiciness and moderate oaky astringency add structure. With time, the earthy character deepens and transmogrifies into freshly turned black soil. Dark, rich and rather intriguing.

Taste: Full bodied, with full-on sweetness and a semi-dry character. Dried fruits and dark chocolate lead the way, followed by slightly burnt caramel and hints of white pepper. Then comes a wave of red berries, with a subtle tartness from rowan berries adding an interesting twist.

Finish: Very long. Soft peppery notes are beautifully tempered by herbal honey. Toasted oak and dark chocolate provide a rich backdrop, while red berry jam and old sherry bring a deep, lingering sweetness.

Comment: Richly rewarding. 

Score 92/100

Sláinte!
-Thomas