Origin: Highlands (Scotland)
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Strength: 46%ABV
Ageing casks: Ex-American and European Oak
Chillfiltered: No
Added colouring: No
Owner: Lalique Group
Average price: € 60.00
Official website: theglenturret.com
Vote: 87/100
Of the many distilleries aspiring to the title of ‘oldest in Scotland’, Glenturret, tucked away in a small valley an hour’s drive from Edinburgh and Glasgow, is certainly one of the most creditable contenders, as some of the buildings on the current site date back as far as 1775. The previous ownership, Edrington Group, used the whisky mainly for blends, Famous Grouse above all, so much so that Glenturret itself (a bit like Strathisla, of Pernod Ricard, called the ‘home of the Chivas Regal’) was known to be the ‘home of Famous Grouse’. However, as we read in the 15yo review that appeared on this blog, the new French ownership has decided to make a radical relaunch of the brand, imported in Italy by Meregalli, both in terms of core range and packaging.
Today we taste the entry level of the range, the 12yo, matured, to read the official indications, in a mix of American and European oak casks (in times of almost total transparency, with distilleries declaring exactly the type of casks used and in what percentage, this vagueness of vocabulary honestly makes one smile a little…) and bottled at 46% ABV in its natural colour and without cold filtration.
Tasting notes
The colour is amber.
On the nose, the first impression is ‘dry’, in the sense of figs on the one hand, and walnuts and almonds on the other, accompanied by a touch of fresh wood and a sweet array of caramel, custard and vanilla sugar, with a sprinkling of nutmeg, and plenty of shortcrust pastry and milk chocolate. After a few minutes, the whole takes on the pleasant appearance of paradise cake.
On the palate the caramel comes through immediately, but it is the consistency of the citrus side that surprises, with blood orange zest and, above all, mandarin. In the mouth, the whisky is really cosy and of an absolute smoothness. A little pepper, then a clear reminder of zabaglione (or rather bombardino). In the finish peach and ginger.
In the medium-length finish, nuts and caramel return.
An entry level that – we are certain – will be able to carve out an important place for itself in the hearts of enthusiasts. Consistent, never banal, but at the same time of a pleasantness capable of intercepting the favour of many.