Glendullan 17 Years Old 2007 Cask #316717

Gordon and MacPhail, the Elgin grocer laying down casks on South Street since 1895, bottled this Glendullan, distilled in 2007, from cask 316717, at 59.2%, one of 181 bottles. Glendullan is a Speyside single malt known for a green, grassy, lightly fruity style. A second distillery was built alongside the original in 1972, the two running together until the old plant closed in 1985. Within a few years it was supplied to King Edward VII by royal request, from 1902.

It was worked unhurried through the stillhouse, shaping a green, malty Speyside character. A refill bourbon hogshead held it, keeping the fresh, fruity character to the fore. Into oxidative maturity, slow air builds tropical esters of mango and pineapple over a creamy depth. The fresh, fruity spirit deepens with time, the cask drawing out a soft honey. Long ageing turns the fresh green notes towards orchard fruit, honey and a gentle spice.

At a natural 59.2% it is full and creamy. Pear, citrus and a soft barley, lifted by a soft oak. Soft pear and a light vanilla sit behind the cask. The close is light and clean, fruit over a gentle oak. This is Glendullan's green, lightly fruity Speyside style.