Glengoyne Sherry Palo Cortado Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Glengoyne Distillery, South of the Highlands, near Glasgow.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Initially matured in ex-bourbon casks, likely refill, then finished for two years in a 50-year-old Palo Cortado sherry cask.
Age Statement: Vintage 1998, aged 15 years, bottled in 2014.
Color and Clarity: Enhanced sherry color due to the Palo Cortado cask finish.
Bottle Design: Not specifically described, but noted as rare and special bottlings.

Balance of Flavors: A complex balance of vanilla, caramel, fruitiness, spiciness, and a hint of bitterness.
Unique Characteristics: Extended two-year finish in a rare Palo Cortado sherry cask, imparting unique dry but fruity sherry notes, with a nutty and almond aroma.
Comparison: Not directly compared to other whiskies, but the unique finishing process sets it apart.

Anecdotes: The use of a 50-year-old Palo Cortado sherry cask is highlighted as special, given the rarity of Palo Cortado sherry itself. The process of how Palo Cortado sherry is made, involving a break in the yeast layer allowing for oxidation, is detailed.
Trivia: The cask's age means most tannins have been removed, focusing the flavor influence on sherry fruitiness rather than wood.

Historical Context: The finishing process in a Palo Cortado cask, a rare type of sherry, adds a layer of cultural and geographical significance, connecting the whisky to traditional Spanish sherry production practices.

"This is really a good one." - Praise for the whisky's quality and uniqueness.
"I never had a finished Glengoyne which had been, well, not worth the money you pay for." - Affirmation of Glengoyne's quality in their finished whiskies.

A rare and special 15-year-old Glengoyne single malt, finished in a 50-year-old Palo Cortado sherry cask.
Features a complex flavor profile with vanilla, caramel, fruitiness, and spiciness, enhanced by the unique Palo Cortado sherry finish.
The use of a rare sherry cask and the detailed explanation of its influence provide a rich storytelling aspect.
Cultural significance is tied to the traditional Spanish sherry production process.
Highly praised by the reviewer for its quality and uniqueness.

Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with an appreciation for unique finishing processes and rare cask influences.
Sherry Cask Fans: Individuals who enjoy the influence of sherry cask maturation on whisky.
Collectors: Given its rarity and special bottling, collectors seeking unique additions to their collection.
Experienced Palates: Those with a developed palate looking to explore complex flavor profiles and appreciate the subtleties of a rare sherry finish.