Glenlivet 2006/2016 Signatory Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Glenlivet Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Distilled on October 17, 2006, and bottled on August 11, 2016, making it just shy of 10 years old. Matured in a first-fill sherry cask.
Age Statement: Approximately 9 years and 10 months.
ABV: 46%.
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but implied to be lighter than expected for a first-fill sherry cask, suggesting it might not be a Pedro Ximenez cask but possibly Oloroso or another type.
Bottle Design: Specific design details not mentioned, but it carries the Signatory Vintage labeling and includes the cask number (9001042).

Nose: Full, fruity nose with some earthiness. Notes of old fruit, with traditional Glenlivet notes of apples, pears, and peaches present but subdued.
Palate: Smooth start with a complex blend of sweetness, sourness, and spiciness, without any bitterness. The flavor profile includes dark fruits and is described as mouth-watering.
Finish: Intense on the tongue, with less oakiness compared to older Glenlivet expressions.

The reviewer, Horst Luening, compares this Glenlivet expression to older ones he has tasted from the 1990s, noting a significant difference in intensity and flavor profile due to the age and cask type.

The Glenlivet distillery is one of Scotland's most famous and historic distilleries, known for its role in defining the Speyside style of whisky. The use of first-fill sherry casks for maturation is a traditional practice that significantly influences the flavor profile of Scotch whisky.

"This has a different smell." - Highlighting the unique aroma profile compared to other Glenlivet expressions.
"So this has to be an American oak cask." - Deduction based on the absence of bitterness and the flavor profile, emphasizing the influence of cask wood origin on whisky flavor.

The Glenlivet 2006/2016 Signatory is a nearly 10-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, matured in a first-fill sherry cask and bottled at 46% ABV.
It presents a unique and complex flavor profile, with a full, fruity nose, and a palate that combines sweetness, sourness, and spiciness without bitterness.
The whisky is lighter than expected for a sherry cask maturation, suggesting a non-Pedro Ximenez cask, possibly Oloroso.
The reviewer notes significant differences from older Glenlivet expressions, particularly in terms of intensity and the presence of dark fruit flavors.
The use of American oak for the sherry cask is inferred based on the flavor profile and the absence of bitterness.

For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with a palate for complex, sherry-influenced whiskies will find this expression intriguing, especially if they appreciate the nuances of cask influence.
For Collectors: Given its unique characteristics and the detailed review, collectors might find this bottle a worthy addition, particularly if they are interested in comparing different Glenlivet expressions.
For Beginners: Might be a bit complex for a complete novice, but could serve as an excellent introduction to the world of sherry cask-matured Scotch for those looking to expand their palate.