Glenglassaugh 15 YO

Glenglassaugh 15 YO, 46 %

So, this is the new Glenglassaugh 15 YO core range single malt whisky. Matured entirely in ex-Pedro Ximénez (30 puncheons) and ex-red wine casks (7 casks). All 1st fill casks! This certainly has my interest piqued! I would say it is quite ballsy, on paper, to go all in on a cask combination like this. Let’s put it to the test, shall we.

The Glenglassaugh 15 YO is available in the UK at around GBP 77.

it noses with sultanas, raisins, salted caramel, and bright Spanish orange. The palate is rounded and luxurious, with treacle and caramelised dates meeting fresh papaya, as chocolate and tobacco underneath. The finish takes its time, with cinnamon and nutmeg, coastal notes and light nuttiness.

Nose: Rich and decadent, in a good way. Dried fruits and assorted red berries make it juicy and fresh. Seville oranges form the next wave, closely followed by earthy vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and chocolate. Then come sea salt and seaweed, transporting me back to the beach at Sandend.

Taste: Full bodied. Dark and comforting in character. Somewhat dry with mild spiciness, yet still rich in fruitiness. Creamy vanilla and honey mingle with returning cinnamon, nutmeg and dried fruits. The maritime touch from the nose persists throughout.

Finish: Medium to long. Earthy, malty, spicy and fruity. A surprisingly complex dram, with chocolate, espresso martini and toasted oak adding further layers, while the maritime character remains in the background.

Comment: Decadent richness with maritime complexity. 

Score 89/100

Sláinte!
-Thomas