This is the first of two Glenlivet tastings planned for this week; the 18 year old will be next. Unlike others in the range, The Glenlivet 15 year old is matured using French Limousin Oak (Limousin region of France). You’ll often see it stated that this 15 year old is finished in French Oak casks, but it’s actually more of a marriage, or vatting. A limited quantity of the whisky is placed in the French Oak casks to mature before being married with the remaining whisky that has been aged fully in American Oak casks.
Not too many distilleries play around with French Oak, and it seems that The Glenlivet was one of the first to do so. French Oak is commonly used to age cognacs and wines – part of a vintner’s spice arsenal so-to-speak – but it is becoming increasingly more common within the whisky industry as demand and experimentation increases, while the number of quality Bourbon and Sherry casks decrease.
While American casks are typically stronger and sweeter in flavor, French Oak casks offer spicier characteristics. This is exactly what we see here in The Glenlivet 15 year old. There’s plenty of soft, sweet, fruity characteristics much like the 12 year old, but the use of French Oak ads just a little more depth and complexity. Both American Oak and French European Oak offer creamy and silky textures, which are definitely seen here as well.
Price: Approx $50/750ml
ABV: 40%
Color: Golden Amber
Nose: Creamy caramel, raspberry, fragrant and floral, walnuts, a bit of orange citrus, apple, and clove. There’s almost this cinnamon dusted orange peel thing going on.
Palate: Sweet, smooth and creamy, vanilla, floral, apricot, cinnamon, citrus, nutmeg, roasted almonds, dry apple slices, and a slight hint of sawdust.
Finish: Moderate with hints of creamy fruit, spices and walnut.
Another great everyday sipper from The Glenlivet – If you’re a fan of the 12 year old I recommend you give this one a try. Age isn’t really a factor here; it’s simply the added depth from the French Oak. When you sip this the 12 year old is noticeable (meaning the classic Glenlivet profile), but it gets a little darker and deeper with added spices and brighter floral notes. (B/B-)
Whisky Informative 