Average retail price:  Vintage – auction only

Tasting Notes Tasting Notes for Glenfarclas 12 Year Old 

Appearance

The Glenfarclas 12 year old presents a beautiful golden-honey hue in the glass, reminiscent of a summer wheat field bathed in sunlight. The liquid displays a medium viscosity, leaving behind slow-forming “legs” that cling to the side of the glass, hinting at a smooth and oily texture.

Nose

The initial aromas are a warm and inviting embrace. Sherry influence takes center stage, offering notes of dried raisins, prunes, and a touch of honeyed sweetness. Hints of baking spice, like cinnamon and nutmeg, peek through, adding a layer of complexity. Underlying malty notes emerge, subtly grounding the sweeter sherry character. The balance is delightful, each aroma complementing the others to create a harmonious and inviting nose.

Palate

The first sip delivers a burst of flavor. The mouthfeel is medium-bodied, with a touch of oiliness that coats the tongue pleasantly. The sherry influence translates beautifully onto the palate, offering notes of stewed fruit, raisin, and a touch of orange marmalade. Hints of vanilla and toffee add a touch of sweetness, while underlying malty notes provide a welcome counterpoint to the fruitiness.

As the dram unfolds, a subtle oaky spice emerges, adding a touch of warmth and complexity. The flavors are well-integrated and linger pleasantly on the palate.

Finish

The finish is of moderate length, leaving a warm and satisfying sensation. The lingering notes are a delightful medley of dried fruit, spice, and a touch of oak tannin. A hint of honeyed sweetness persists, creating a lasting impression.

Overall Impression

The Glenfarclas 12 Year Old is a crowd-pleaser, but due to its vintage nature bottles are limited and rare. The rich sherry influence is balanced by subtle malty notes and a touch of oak spice, making it an enjoyable dram for the seasoned palate. 

Conclusion & Recommendation

This is a versatile whisky, perfect for sipping neat or enjoying on the rocks. Its approachable nature and vintage price point make it an excellent addition to a whisky collection.

Check out more from Glenfarclas here.

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