Glen Spey 15 Years Old 2001 (Authentic Collection)

A Glen Spey of a 15 year old chosen by Cadenhead, distilled in 2001, at 56.4%, one of 288 bottles. Glen Spey is a Speyside single malt, long a quiet backbone of the J and B blend. Most of its spirit goes to blends; single malt Glen Spey is rare, and largely the work of independents. Its stills were doubled from two to four in the 1970 expansion, the make still light and grassy.

Distilled from unpeated malt, building a light, fragrant spirit with a thread of nuttiness. A bourbon barrel held it, the wood adding a light vanilla and a touch of honey. Into oxidative maturity, slow air builds fruity esters of apple and a light tropical note over a nutty depth. Long ageing turns the green, herbal edge towards orchard fruit, honey and a gentle spice. Built for the blender's art, the light make ages with quiet grace as a single malt. The lantern stills set a light, fresh tone that the oak then slowly deepens.

At a hearty 56.4% it carries real weight. Green apple, hay and a soft cereal, with a light oak sweetness. A green apple and a gentle spice lift the middle. The close is light and clean, grass over a gentle oak. This is a Speyside single malt of real lightness.