Glenfarclas Christmas Edition 1995 Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Highland, Scotland.
Type: Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation Date: December 21, 1995.
Bottling Date: July 2014.
Age Statement: Approximately 19 years.
Maturation: Matured in seven different sherry casks (casks 6,855 to 6,861).
ABV: 46%.
Color: The color is indicative of the sherry cask influence, though not explicitly described, it suggests a rich hue.
Clarity and Bottle Design: The bottle features a unique label depicting the Glenfarclas distillery covered in snow, emphasizing its winter/Christmas theme.

Balance of Flavors: A harmonious blend of delicate, fruity, nutty, and sherry aromas.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its dark fruits, dried fruits, and a distinct nuttiness reminiscent of hazelnuts and walnuts. The whisky carries a sweetness with a beginning of spiciness attacking the tongue, transitioning to orange fruitiness, and ending with a very faint, distant bitterness.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, the emphasis on sherry cask maturation aligns it with other sherried whiskies, albeit with a unique Christmas distillation story.

Interesting Anecdotes: The Christmas Edition is distilled close to Christmas, continuing a tradition with previous editions distilled on December 24th. The reviewer shares a personal anecdote of visiting the snow-covered Glenfarclas distillery in February, adding to the festive narrative of the whisky.

Historical Context: Glenfarclas is highlighted as an independent, family-owned distillery, distinguishing it from those owned by larger corporations. This independence is portrayed as contributing to the uniqueness and rarity of the Christmas Edition.

"This Highland Single Malt is an absolute rarity of the independent distillery Glenfarclas."
"Glenfarclas does not color its whiskies, so you can decide from the color of the whiskey how big the Sherry Cask influence in these whiskies are."

Glenfarclas Christmas Edition 1995 is a Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, distilled on December 21, 1995, and bottled in July 2014.
Matured in sherry casks, it presents a rich flavor profile of dark fruits, dried fruits, and nuttiness, with a subtle spiciness and faint bitterness.
The whisky is part of a unique Christmas-themed series by the independent, family-owned Glenfarclas distillery.
The bottle design features a snow-covered depiction of the distillery, emphasizing its winter/Christmas theme.
The reviewer appreciates the rarity and unique flavor profile of this edition, while also noting the potential for bitterness, which may not appeal to all.

Sherry Cask Enthusiasts: Individuals who appreciate the rich, fruity, and nutty flavors typically imparted by sherry cask maturation.
Collectors and Connoisseurs: Those interested in rare and unique editions, especially with a festive theme or independent distillery provenance.
Holiday Season Whisky Lovers: Individuals looking for a whisky with a Christmas story or theme to enjoy during the holiday season.
Beginners with a Sweet Tooth: New whisky drinkers who enjoy sweet and fruity flavors, but they should be cautious of the potential for faint bitterness.