Glenlivet Vintage Small Batch No. 1 Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Glenlivet Distillery, under the Signatory Vintage label.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Distilled on April 10th and March 27th, 2007, matured in first-fill sherry casks (two butts and three hogsheads) without chill filtration.
Age Statement: 10 years.
ABV: 48.1%, not cask strength due to its age.
Color and Clarity: Deep color indicating full oxidation of the sherry in the casks.
Bottle Design: Specific design details not mentioned, but it includes a batch number (Small Batch No. 1) and bottle number (1915).

Balance of Flavors: Dominated by sherry with a balance of vanilla and toffee notes, followed by oakiness.
Unique Characteristics: The use of fully oxidized sherry casks contributes to a massive, full, and aromatic profile with a notable absence of bitterness, replaced by an intense spiciness from the wood.
Comparison: Differentiated by the type of sherry cask maturation (oxidized vs. non-oxidized), with oxidized sherry casks (like Pedro Ximenez and Oloroso) imparting sweetness and fruitiness, respectively.

The whisky is part of Signatory Vintage's offerings, known for their selective cask maturation processes. This batch is unique for using only first-fill casks, a rarity in Signatory Vintage's mixed batches which usually include some refill casks.

The Glenlivet Distillery's products, especially those bottled by Signatory Vintage, are highly regarded in the whisky community. This specific batch, however, is limited to Central Europe, making it a rare find for collectors and enthusiasts outside this region.

Horst Luening, the master taster, expresses a "big fat grin" in anticipation of reviewing this whisky, indicating high expectations based on previous experiences with similar bottlings.
Luening notes the importance of sherry cask selection, highlighting the difference between oxidized and non-oxidized sherry casks and their impact on the whisky's flavor profile.

Glenlivet Vintage Small Batch No. 1 is a 10-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, matured in first-fill sherry casks and bottled at 48.1% ABV by Signatory Vintage.
It features a deep color and a flavor profile dominated by sherry, with vanilla, toffee, and oak notes.
The whisky is unique for its use of fully oxidized sherry casks, contributing to its intense and aromatic profile.
Limited to Central Europe, it represents a rare addition to the collections of whisky enthusiasts outside this region.
Expert Horst Luening praises the whisky's complexity and the impact of sherry cask maturation on its flavor.

Sherry Cask Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate the deep, rich flavors imparted by sherry cask maturation will find this whisky particularly enjoyable.
Collectors: The limited availability of this batch in Central Europe makes it a valuable find for collectors.
Experienced Whisky Drinkers: The complexity and unique maturation process make it a must-try for seasoned whisky aficionados looking for something distinct.
Beginners with a Sweet Tooth: Newcomers to whisky who prefer sweeter profiles might enjoy the vanilla and toffee notes, though the intensity of the sherry flavor might be overwhelming for some.