Whisky Review/Tasting: The Glenkinchie Distillers Edition

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Lowland, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Whisky.
Distillation: Utilizes two stills instead of the traditional three for Lowland whiskies, aiming for a more intense aroma.
Maturation: Initially aged in ex-bourbon casks, followed by a finishing period in Amontillado sherry casks for between 6 to 24 months.
Age Statement: Distilled in 1995 and bottled in 2009, making it a 14-year-old whisky.
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the sherry cask finishing likely imparts a richer hue.
Bottle Design: Not described, but as part of the Classic Malts of Scotland series, it likely follows the branding and design standards of this collection.

Balance of Flavors: Described as complex, with a balance between fruitiness, sherry, spiciness, and oakiness.
Unique Characteristics: Despite being a Lowland whisky, it presents an intense, full, and complex profile, contrasting the typical perception of Lowland whiskies as smooth and weak.
Comparison: Comparable to Highland single malts in terms of complexity and intensity.

Anecdotes: The bottle was nearly finished by friends of the host, highlighting its popularity among those who have tried it.
Trivia: Part of the Classic Malts of Scotland series, which includes six distilleries known for their distinctive single malt whiskies.

Historical Context: Glenkinchie is one of the few remaining Lowland distilleries, representing a style of Scotch whisky that is often overshadowed by its Highland and Islay counterparts.
Geographical Context: Produced in the Lowlands but crafted to exhibit the intensity and complexity associated with Highland whiskies.

"This Glen Kinchy, even coming from the lowlands, is a full matured, strong, complex, sherry laden single malt whisky, which may be compared to every Highlands single malt." - Horst Luening, Master Taster of whisky.com.

Glenkinchie Distillers Edition is a 14-year-old Lowland single malt whisky.
Distilled in 1995 and bottled in 2009, with a finishing period in Amontillado sherry casks.
Despite its Lowland origin, it offers a complex and intense flavor profile, comparable to Highland single malts.
Part of the Classic Malts of Scotland series, emphasizing its quality and distinctiveness.
Praised for its complexity, balance, and full maturity, challenging the typical perception of Lowland whiskies.

For the Connoisseur: The complexity and unique maturation process make this a must-try.
For the Adventurous Drinker: Its departure from the typical Lowland profile offers a new experience.
For the Highland Enthusiast: A Lowland whisky that rivals the intensity and complexity of Highland malts.
For the Sherry Cask Fan: The Amontillado sherry cask finishing provides a rich, sherry-laden flavor profile that will appeal to fans of sherry cask-aged whiskies.