Whisky Review: The GlenDronach Cask Bottling Batch 19 from Cask Bottling Batch 19 is remarkably different landed on my desk, carrying a $820/750ml price tag. With 29 years of age behind it, Here is what I found.
Nose
Auburn Copper Dark and syrupy amber with hefty legs in the glass. Slightly sweet, but the clearest aroma is that of burnt gunpowder, the residue of a toy cap gun. Bubble Yum bubble gum, along with caramel strawberry notes. Orange and maple with subtle leather, a promising burn that opens quickly. Luxardo cherry, a toothsome subtle sweetness, with earthiness shining through and a smack of leather. Score: 5/5 Tasting Notes: GlenDronach Cask Bottling 1992 Cask 6052 Vital Stats: Cask type Pedro Ximénez puncheon. Aged 28 years. ABV 50.8%. 658 bottles produced and released in CA, ID, IN, KY, LA, NM, NC, ND, NE, MT, OH, OK, OR, TX, UT, WA, WY. SRP $720/750ml. Appearance: Copper Nose: Bubble Yum bubble gum, along with caramel strawberry notes. Palate: This is a very fruity Scotch, which was a surprise. Plum and vanilla stand out first. Out of the three, this expression was the weakest. It took some time to pick out specific flavors. There is a long, smooth finish on the back end. Score: 4.5/5 Tasting Notes: GlenDronach Cask Bottling 1994 Cask 5080 Vital Stats: Cask type Oloroso puncheon. Aged 27 years. ABV 54.3%. 667 bottles produced and released in AZ, CO, DE, DC, IL, FL, MD, MN, MD, NV, SC. SRP $600/750ml. Appearance: Dark and syrupy amber with hefty legs in the glass. Nose: Orange and maple with subtle leather, a promising burn that opens quickly. Palate: Tobacco and tart cranberry muddled with semi-sweet chocolate coats the palate. I enjoyed a smooth finish that settles and amplifies after a few minutes open in my Glencairn. Score: 4/5 Final Thoughts: I was so surprised with this tasting. After many strongly stiff and smoky Scotch tastings, The GlenDronach Distillery Cask Bottling Batch 19 is remarkably different. My expectations going in were blown away as I was met with smooth sweetness and only moderate smokiness, as GlenDronach is usually made from unpeated barley. My favorite expression was the oldest, with the 1992 Cask 217 offering the most distinct, fresh flavor profile and the lowest levels of sweetness of the bunch. With so few bottles released, I highly suggest shelling out the big bucks if possible. Maybe even going in with a couple of Scotch-loving friends to share in these unique expressions!
Palate
Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by Whiskeyful or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.
The Bottom Line
Whisky Review: The GlenDronach Cask Bottling Batch 19 is fine — not bad, not great, just fine. At $820/750ml, I think there are better options in this range if you are willing to look around.
