Glendronach 20 Years Old 1990 Cask #3059

This official Glendronach, a 20 year old, from 1990, cask 3059, at 54.9%, 638 bottles in all. Glendronach is a rich Highland malt from the Valley of Forgue, near Huntly. It ferments in Oregon pine washbacks over long fermentations for a full, fruity spirit. Its whisky is now overseen by the master blender Dr Rachel Barrie.

The spirit was drawn from a thick, heavy wash, giving a deep, full bodied Highland spirit. Maturation came in an Oloroso sherry puncheon, layered over the full Glendronach make. At oxidative maturity aldehydes lend a nutty edge while ellagitannins draw a drying, structured grip across the fruit. The wood frames the spirit without ever stripping the full Highland body. Maturation runs slow and even in the traditional dunnage warehouses on the Forgue site. Long ageing turns the fresh notes towards date, prune and a dark, bittersweet chocolate.

Bottled at a cask strength 54.9%, it is deep and concentrated. Baked apple, honey and a dark chocolate, with dried fruit, fig and walnut from the cask. Beneath it run dried fruit, dark sugar and a warm spice. The finish is long, rich and spiced. This is Glendronach's deep, fruity Highland style.