Glen Turner Heritage Double Cask

Glen Turner Heritage Double Cask | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

  • Origin: The Glen Turner Heritage Double Cask is a single malt Scotch whisky, produced by Glen Moray distillery, which is located in the Speyside region of Scotland.
  • Type: It is a single malt whisky.
  • Distillation and Maturation Process: Initially matured in oak casks and then finished in port wine casks.
  • Age Statement: Approximately 8 years.
  • Color and Bottle Design: The specific color of the whisky was not described, but the bottle design is noted as standard, with engravings of "Glanturna" on the top. The packaging includes a tube with a tin lid. The cork is a compound cork, not real cork.

Whisky Flavor Profile

  • Balance of Flavors: The whisky presents a bold character of oak with the depth and rich flavors imparted by the port wood casks. It has a complex flavor profile that includes caramel, vanilla, fruitiness, and maltiness typical of Speyside whiskies, with an unexpected hefty oakiness and spiciness.
  • Unique Characteristics: Notable for its port wine aroma and the surprising intensity of oakiness despite its relatively young age.
  • Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, its flavor profile is indicative of Speyside single malts, with the unique addition of port wine cask finishing.

Whisky Storytelling

  • Interesting Stories: The Glen Turner brand does not represent a specific distillery but is a product of Glen Moray, which was sold to La Martinique, a French company. This connection to a wine-producing company explains the use of wine casks for finishing the whisky.

Cultural or Geographical Significance

  • Significance: The whisky embodies the Speyside tradition with a twist, thanks to its finishing in port wine casks. The Glen Turner brand, while not tied to a specific distillery, leverages the Scottish heritage of whisky making and the influence of French wine culture through its ownership.

Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes

  • Opinions: Horst Luening, the senior taster, appreciates the port wine aroma and finds the whisky more complex than anticipated. However, he notes the overwhelming oakiness as over the top for his taste.
  • Quotes: "This is very very typical Speyside... it's more complex than I thought."

Summary

  • Glen Turner Heritage Double Cask is a Speyside single malt Scotch whisky, aged approximately 8 years, with a finishing in port wine casks.
  • Produced by Glen Moray distillery and owned by a French company, La Martinique.
  • Features a bold oak character with rich port wood flavors, alongside typical Speyside notes of caramel, vanilla, and fruitiness.
  • Noted for its surprising intensity of oakiness and hefty spiciness.
  • Packaged in a standard bottle with "Glanturna" engravings, and comes with a compound cork.
  • Priced affordably, making it accessible for a wide range of whisky enthusiasts.

Recommendations for Different User Profiles

  • For Budget-Conscious Enthusiasts: Given its affordable price, this whisky is recommended for those looking to explore single malts without breaking the bank.
  • For Fans of Oakiness: Individuals who appreciate a strong oak influence in their whisky might find this offering particularly enjoyable.
  • For Speyside Lovers Seeking a Twist: Whisky drinkers who enjoy Speyside malts but are curious about the influence of port wine cask finishing might find this whisky intriguing.
  • For Cocktail Enthusiasts: The robust flavors and affordable price point make it a suitable candidate for whisky-based cocktails, especially for those who favor a pronounced oakiness.