The Glenlivet Master Distiller’s Reserve Solera Vatted
40% ABV - Speyside, Scotland
Nose: This one isn’t overly powerful – caramel, red fruits, warm spices,... marmalade and toffee.
Taste: Red plum and citrus are upfront, with white nectarine and tea following closely behind. An overall sherried character is in the mix here though it’s difficult to pick out other specific flavours.
Finish: Sweeter notes tipping the balance with pear, cherry, spices – including black pepper, and dried fig. The use of wine barrels impart a noted dry bitterness.
There is lots of flavour arriving early in this spirit, progressing into warm, sweet flavours with the dryness and fading spices to round it out. It’s always enjoyable to take a chance on a Travel Retail Exclusive bottling and then come out pleased. The 15 French Oak expression by The Glenlivet is delicious, and I could swap between bottles of these on my shelf. If only I were able to ensure a consistent supply of this one!
Tasted 23 May 2018.
86/100
Detailed Rating Information...
90+: Fantastic whisky; highly recommended.
My favourite whiskies – I might have more than one bottle if the price is right and the supply is limited! The higher values in this range will reflect a stronger balance and consistency between components.
85-89: Great whisky; recommended.
Whiskies that tick the flavour boxes and you'll likely hear about these from me. An easy decision to order at a bar/restaurant and one to consider buying a bottle of.
80-84: Very good whisky; recommended, but still consider trying before you buy.
Most of these whiskies I was really happy to have the opportunity to taste, but, apart from a dram here and there, I don’t think I would buy a bottle.
75-79: Good whisky; consider trying before you buy.
These are whiskies that I did enjoy drinking, but likely would reach for another bottle or select something different to order.
65-74: Average; consider trying before you buy, but not recommended.
There is nothing that stood out about this whisky and I might be inclined to mix it with soda or in a cocktail, instead of trying to enjoy its own flavours.
50-64: Bad; not recommended.
I didn’t like this and would sooner pass on another opportunity and order a beer instead than have it again… but never say never.
