Whisky Review – The Glenrothes Distillery, Peated Cask Reserve
WE’RE BACK! Well we never really went away, but somehow February came and went and we didn’t have time to share the whiskies that we sampled. But don’t worry, just because tasting notes were not shared, does not mean we didn’t taste some fabulous whiskies!
Diving straight back in, we sampled The Glenrothes Distillery Peated Cask Reserve as part of the remnants of our whisky advent calendars. Having #BottleKilled The Glenrothes 12 y/o in 2021, we were intrigued to see how this particular spirit would pair with peat smoke.
The Glenrothes Distillery …
Established in 1897, this distillery is located in the heart of Speyside in the town of Rothes. Unlike many distilleries nowadays, Glenrothes does not have a visitor centre, instead preferring to let their whisky speak for itself.
Their philosophy is built on the ‘Four Corners’ of water, slow distillation, sherry casks, and natural colour. Building on their processes started in 1879 they look to make their whisky with “with integrity, authenticity and, above all, with expert craft”.
Their core range consists of a number of age-statements, including the aforementioned 12 y/o, as well as a 10 y/o and 25 y/o.
Tasting Notes …
The Glenrothes Distillery, Peated Cask Reserve – 40% ABV
A different release from The Glenrothes Distillery, this whisky is finished in casks that have previously held peated Islay whisky.
Nose: toffee, orchard fruit, buttered toast, clotted cream, summer grass, banana bread
Palate: smooth, creamy, vanilla ice cream, elderflower, chilli spice, whisper of smoke from campfire embers
Finish: more elderflower mixed with warming chilli, more prominent smoke
The mouth feel on this whisky is great; thick and full right from the offset. In comparison, the peat isn’t as pronounced and is rather subtle. If you’re looking for a peat-bomb this is not the place to start!
Overall this was an interesting whisky to try. Certainly different than your typical Glenrothes expression, and definitely not unpleasant. The elderflower really builds, and creates a light floral vibe – think slightly dark Spring evening! Personally, we would have preferred the peat to pack more of a punch (but then again, we’re smoke-heads in this household!).
We would both feel comfortable using this as a ‘starter’ dram; to introduce peat to those who think they’re not so keen. The comforting, familiar Glenrothes background notes feel like a great way to ease someone into smokier whisky.
Have you tried this dram? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
The Dram Duo 