Glen Garioch Founders Reserve | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Eastern Highlands, Scotland, near Oldmeldrum, not too far from Aberdeen.
Type: Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Matured in ex-bourbon casks.
Age Statement: No specific age statement mentioned for the Founders Reserve.
Color and Bottle Design: The whisky presents a clear appearance. The bottle design is described as "bulgy," allowing a full view of the whisky. The label is considered slightly oversized, but the bottle features an engraving of the year 1797, highlighting the distillery's long history.

Balance of Flavors: Fresh, fruity, with vanilla and caramel notes. The 48% ABV contributes to an alcoholic note that enhances the fresh fruitiness, with apple and grapefruit being prominent. No smokiness detected.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky exhibits a significant spicy and peppery note, especially on the first sip, which then transitions to a smoother, oaky, and warming experience. The intensity of the oak suggests the use of quite fresh casks.

Glen Garioch Distillery, founded in 1797, is one of the oldest working distilleries in Scotland. It experienced a period of mothballing around 1994, shortly before which the reviewer had the opportunity to visit. The distillery has since reissued new whiskies, including the Founders Reserve.

Glen Garioch is situated in a historically significant whisky-producing region, the Eastern Highlands of Scotland, though the sub-region designation has faded due to the reduced number of distilleries in the area. The distillery's long history and survival make it a notable point of interest in the whisky world.

Horst Luening, the senior taster, appreciates the Founders Reserve for its intensity and expression, contrasting it with smoother, more expensive variants like the 12-year-old. He suggests this whisky for those seeking a stronger, more expressive experience beyond the "normal whiskeys" that may appear too weak and smooth.

The Glen Garioch Founders Reserve is a Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky from one of Scotland's oldest distilleries, offering a fresh, fruity, and spicy flavor profile without smokiness. Matured in ex-bourbon casks, it presents a clear appearance and is bottled at 48% ABV. The whisky's design and presentation pay homage to its heritage, with a notable intensity and oakiness that appeal to those desiring a more expressive whisky experience.

For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with a preference for historical distilleries and traditional Scotch whisky-making methods will find the Glen Garioch Founders Reserve particularly appealing.
For Adventurous Drinkers: Individuals seeking a whisky with a strong, spicy, and oaky profile, distinct from smoother and milder options, will enjoy this expression.
For Collectors: The unique bottle design and the distillery's long history make this whisky a worthy addition to any collection, especially for those interested in the Eastern Highlands region.