Glen Garioch Vintage 1997 Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Glen Garioch Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Distilled in 1997 after the distillery reopened. Matured in a combination of first and second fill ex-bourbon barrels. The exact ratio of barrel types is unspecified.
Age Statement: 15 years.
ABV: 56.7%.
Color: Light gold, described as full.
Clarity and Bottle Design: Not explicitly described, but the whisky is noted to be non-chill filtered and likely non-colored. The packaging and bottle design changes over time are mentioned, indicating an improvement in quality.

Balance of Flavors: Complex and balanced, with a creamy texture.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky showcases fresh fruit tastes and soft creamy textures characteristic of Glen Garioch's house style.
Comparison: Not directly compared to other whiskies, but its unique flavor profile is highlighted.
Tasting Notes: Vanilla, nougat, cinnamon, ginger spice, heather honey, malted biscuits, melon, pears, waxed limes, spiced pear crumble, ripe banana, toffee, honeydew melon, nutmeg, allspice, and a sweet and juicy pear finish with spices.

Distillery History: Glen Garioch distillery temporarily closed in 1995 and reopened in 1997. This vintage is one of the first malts distilled after the reopening.
Personal Anecdote: Horst Luening visited the distillery in 1995 during its closure and had the opportunity to explore the facilities.

Pronunciation and Dialect: The whisky's name is pronounced "Glengiri," reflecting the local dialect.
Distillery Challenges: The distillery's closure in 1995 and subsequent reopening in 1997 are highlighted, along with its struggle for popularity compared to sister distilleries.

"This whisky is not chill filtered and I think it's also not colored" - emphasizing the natural characteristics of the whisky.
"The selection of the whiskies was much much better than before" - noting an improvement in quality with the new bottlings.

Glen Garioch Vintage 1997 is a 15-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, distilled after the distillery's reopening in 1997.
Matured in a mix of first and second fill ex-bourbon barrels, non-chill filtered, with an ABV of 56.7%.
Flavor profile includes a complex balance of vanilla, spices, fresh fruits, and creamy textures.
The distillery's history of closure and reopening adds a unique aspect to this vintage.
Improved quality in recent bottlings is noted, with a caution against older, lower-quality releases.

Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in the history and revival stories of distilleries will find the backstory engaging.
Cask Strength Whisky Lovers: With its high ABV, this whisky appeals to those who appreciate cask strength expressions and the flexibility to dilute to taste.
Flavor Chasers: Individuals seeking a complex, balanced flavor profile with a mix of fruits, spices, and creamy textures will enjoy this vintage.
Collectors: Given its significance as one of the first malts distilled after the distillery's reopening, collectors may find this vintage a worthy addition.