Glenlivet Signatory Sherrybutt 15 Years Cask Strenght

Glenlivet Signatory Sherrybutt 15 years cask strength

Physical Whisky Characteristics

  • Origin: Glenlivet Distillery, Scotland.
  • Type: Single Malt Whisky.
  • Distillation Date: November 6, 1997.
  • Bottling Date: October 24, 2013.
  • Age Statement: 15 years.
  • Maturation: First fill sherry butt.
  • Cask Strength: 55.4% ABV.
  • Color: Natural, indicative of Oloroso or Pedro Ximenez sherry cask maturation.
  • Clarity: Clear.
  • Bottle Design: Specific design details not mentioned, but it is from Signatory Vintage, known for their detailed labeling including cask number and bottling details.

Whisky Flavor Profile

  • Initial Aromas: Fruity sherry, not overly sweet, with a strong vanilla presence possibly from American white oak, and a backdrop of spicy notes.
  • Fruits: Dark fruits like figs, plums, and raisins.
  • Development with Water: Reduction in alcohol sharpness, enhancement of fruity aromas, emergence of sweet juice oranges, and a spicy oakiness.
  • Taste: Sweetness, vanilla, sherry influence, and a spicy oak presence. The exact type of oak (European or American) is unclear.

Whisky Storytelling

  • The whisky is a product of the Glenlivet distillery, bottled by the independent bottler Signatory Vintage, which also owns the Edradour distillery. The specific cask number (157,421) reflects Glenlivet's large production scale.

Cultural or Geographical Significance

  • Glenlivet is a renowned distillery with a significant output, indicating its importance in the Scotch whisky industry. The use of sherry casks for maturation connects the whisky to traditional Spanish influences on Scotch whisky flavors.

Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes

  • Horst Luening describes the whisky as "one of the very best" he's tasted recently, highlighting its mouthwatering spiciness and the balance of sweetness and oakiness.
  • The preference for not tasting whiskies above 50% ABV without dilution is mentioned, emphasizing the importance of adjusting whisky to personal taste preferences.

Summary

  • A 15-year-old Glenlivet single malt whisky, matured in a first-fill sherry butt, bottled by Signatory Vintage.
  • Exhibits a complex flavor profile with fruity, vanilla, and spicy notes, enhanced by the natural color and cask strength presentation.
  • The whisky's connection to traditional maturation practices and its significant production scale underscore its cultural and geographical importance.
  • Highly praised by the master taster for its balance and mouthfeel.

Recommendations for Different User Profiles

  • For Whisky Connoisseurs: The complexity and cask strength presentation make it appealing for experienced palates seeking depth and traditional maturation influences.
  • For Sherry Cask Fans: Those who appreciate the rich, fruity flavors imparted by sherry cask maturation will find this whisky particularly enjoyable.
  • For Collectors: The detailed labeling, including cask number and natural color, along with its limited bottling, make it a noteworthy addition to any collection.