Glenfarclas No. 20 James Clerk Maxwell 1988/2016 Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Glenfarclas Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Matured in a mixture of four sherry casks (European oak, potentially from the Pyrenees) with varying degrees of use (first fill, second fill, and possibly third fill).
Age Statement: Vintage 1988, bottled in 2016, making it 28 years old.
ABV: 46%, unchill filtered.
Color and Clarity: Deep dark sherry color, indicating a strong sherry cask influence.
Bottle Design: Part of a collector's series featuring Scottish personalities, with this being the 20th edition dedicated to James Clerk Maxwell.

Balance of Flavors: A complex and full flavor profile with a balance between the sherry cask influence and the distillery character, which is somewhat hidden behind the cask influence.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky showcases a deep sherry influence, combined with vanilla and caramel notes. There's a presence of faint coffee notes and a light bitterness balanced by the sweetness from the caramel.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, it's noted that this blend of casks offers a more balanced profile than single cask expressions, which can be more intense and tannin-rich.

Series Significance: The whisky is part of a series celebrating Scottish personalities, with this edition honoring James Clerk Maxwell, a pivotal figure in the field of physics.
Historical Anecdotes: Maxwell is known for his contributions to the understanding of electromagnetism (Maxwell's equations) and the speed of gas molecules (Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution), as well as taking one of the first color photographs.

Sherry Cask Tradition: The use of European oak sherry casks, which were more common before the switch to American white oak in the 90s and early 2000s, highlights a traditional aspect of whisky maturation that contributes to the whisky's distinct flavor profile.

"Really a deep dark sherry in it... very complex, very full, very strong."
"The mixture between the first fill and second fill, probably third fill, sherry cask because it's so much more balanced than a single cask are used to be."
"This is a typical old Glenfarclas... the sherry is very present."

Glenfarclas No. 20 James Clerk Maxwell is a 28-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, matured in a mix of sherry casks, showcasing a deep sherry influence along with vanilla, caramel, and faint coffee notes.
Part of a collector's series, this edition honors the Scottish physicist James Clerk Maxwell.
The whisky offers a complex and balanced flavor profile, attributed to the blend of casks used for maturation.
Limited to 2,400 bottles, it represents a valuable addition to any collection, especially given its quality relative to price.

For Collectors: Given its limited edition nature and part of a series celebrating Scottish personalities, it's a must-have.
For Enthusiasts of Rich, Sherry-Influenced Whiskies: The deep sherry, vanilla, and caramel profile will appeal to those who enjoy a complex and full-bodied dram.
For History and Science Buffs: The connection to James Clerk Maxwell adds an extra layer of interest beyond the whisky itself.