Home / Whiskey / Gordon & MacPhail Reserve (distilled at...

Gordon & MacPhail Reserve (distilled at Glenrothes), 18 year old, 1986 vintage, 46%

Scotland Single Malt Scotch Score: 8.9/10

Gordon & MacPhail Reserve (distilled at Glenrothes), 18 year old, 1986 vintage, 46% is a highly acclaimed Single Malt Scotch whiskey crafted in Scotland. With an impressive rating of 8.9/10, it features distinctive notes of Almond, Apple, Caramel. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts seeking single malt scotch expressions from Scotland.

About This Whiskey

The Gordon & MacPhail Reserve 18 Year Old (distilled at Glenrothes) from the 1986 vintage is a refined single malt whisky that reflects the depth and complexity that age imparts. Bottled at 46% ABV, it is part of the Gordon & MacPhail’s prestigious Reserve series, which showcases some of the finest casks selected from renowned distilleries. Glenrothes, known for its rich sherry cask influence, offers a whisky with a full-bodied character, enhanced by the careful maturation and selection of casks. This expression combines the distillery’s signature fruitiness with layers of rich oak and spice, providing a balanced and sophisticated drinking experience.

Tasting Notes

NOSE: The nose of this Glenrothes whisky is inviting and layered, starting with rich, fruity aromas of dried fruits like sultanas, raisins, and figs, with a hint of ripe apple and pear. The sherry cask maturation is evident, contributing sweet notes of honey, toffee, and a light dusting of cinnamon. There are also undertones of dark chocolate and almonds, which add depth and richness to the nose. As the whisky opens up, a touch of oak spice—vanilla, cloves, and nutmeg—emerges, adding further complexity. The overall nose is smooth and warm, offering a harmonious balance of fruit, sweetness, and oak.

TASTE: On the palate, the Gordon & MacPhail Reserve 18 Year Old is full-bodied and smooth, with a luxurious texture that coats the mouth. The initial flavor is a delightful mix of dried fruits, particularly raisins and figs, along with the fresh sweetness of honey, toffee, and a touch of caramel. The sherry influence provides richness and depth, with a balanced interplay of oak spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and a slight touch of cloves. There is also a subtle nuttiness from the almonds and a hint of dark chocolate, giving the whisky a satisfying complexity. The palate is well-rounded and rich, with a perfect balance of sweetness, fruit, and spice.

FINISH: The finish is long and elegant, with lingering notes of dried fruits, honey, and soft toffee. The oak spices—cinnamon and nutmeg—continue to warm the palate, leaving a gentle spiciness that complements the sweetness. The final notes of dark chocolate and almonds offer a rich, satisfying conclusion. The whisky’s finish is clean yet complex, with the flavors continuing to evolve as they fade, showcasing the exceptional quality of the cask and the skillful maturation process. This 18-year-old Glenrothes expression is a beautifully balanced whisky that offers a refined and memorable drinking experience.

Flavor Profile

Almond Apple Caramel Cinnamon Clove Dark Chocolate Dried Honey Nutmeg Oak Oats Pear Sultana Tart Toffee Vanilla

Similar Whiskeys

Macallan 10yo Full Proof 57% 1980 (OB, Giovinetti & Figli)

Ledaig 42yo Dusgadh

Laphroaig 27yo 57.4% 1980-2007 (OB, 5 Oloroso Casks, 972 Bts)

Glenfarclas 40yo

Amrut Spectrum (Batch 1)

Glengoyne 25yo

Highland Park 25yo

Highland Park 40yo

Tamdhu 30yo (MacPhail Collection 2009)

Balvenie TUN 1401 (all batches)

Kavalan Solist Oloroso Sherry Cask

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 33)

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 37)

Highland Park 30yo

Laphroaig 25yo

Nikka Single Cask Coffey Malt 12yo

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 40)

Yamazaki 18yo

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 49)

Redbreast 21yo

Yamazaki Sherry Cask (all vintages)

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 56)

Bruichladdich 21yo Cuvée 407 PX

Compass Box Last Vatted Malt

Amrut Greedy Angels (8yo and 10yo)

BenRiach 18yo Albariza Pedro Ximenez Peated

Amrut Spectrum (all batches)

Bowmore Springtide

Highland Park 16yo Odin

GlenDronach Cask Strength (batch 1)

Kavalan Solist Vinho Barrique

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 53)

GlenDronach Cask Strength (batch 2)

Macallan Cask Strength

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 39)

Highland Park 18yo

Karuizawa 1990 Sherry Butt

Kavalan Solist PX Cask

Sheep Dip Old Hebridean 1990 Blended Malt

Timorous Beastie 21yo Sherry Edition

Amrut Spectrum 004 (Batch 2)

GlenDronach vintage 20yo Single Cask (all vintages)

Kavalan Solist Manzanilla Cask

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 44)

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 52)

Kavalan Solist Amontillado Cask

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 35)

BenRiach 17yo Solstice Peated Port (both editions)

Benromach 10yo Cask Strength (100 proof)

Highland Park 17yo The Dark

User Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions About Gordon & MacPhail Reserve (distilled at Glenrothes), 18 year old, 1986 vintage, 46%

What type of whiskey is Gordon & MacPhail Reserve (distilled at Glenrothes), 18 year old, 1986 vintage, 46%?

Gordon & MacPhail Reserve (distilled at Glenrothes), 18 year old, 1986 vintage, 46% is a Single Malt Scotch whiskey from Scotland. This type is known for its distinctive characteristics and unique production process.

How should I taste Gordon & MacPhail Reserve (distilled at Glenrothes), 18 year old, 1986 vintage, 46%?

For the best tasting experience, pour Gordon & MacPhail Reserve (distilled at Glenrothes), 18 year old, 1986 vintage, 46% into a tulip-shaped glass and let it rest for a few minutes. Start by nosing the whiskey to appreciate its aromatic complexity. Take small sips and let the whiskey coat your palate. You may want to add a few drops of water to open up the flavors. We recommend enjoying it neat to fully appreciate its character.

What foods pair well with Gordon & MacPhail Reserve (distilled at Glenrothes), 18 year old, 1986 vintage, 46%?

Gordon & MacPhail Reserve (distilled at Glenrothes), 18 year old, 1986 vintage, 46% pairs excellently with aged cheeses, dark chocolate, nuts, and dried fruits. Experiment to find your perfect pairing!

What are the main flavor notes in Gordon & MacPhail Reserve (distilled at Glenrothes), 18 year old, 1986 vintage, 46%?

The flavor profile of Gordon & MacPhail Reserve (distilled at Glenrothes), 18 year old, 1986 vintage, 46% features Almond, Apple, Caramel, Cinnamon, Clove. These flavors create a complex and layered tasting experience that has been highly praised by critics and enthusiasts alike.

Cocktails with Scotch

Affinity

Balmoral

Dry Rob Roy

Flying Scotchman

Godfather

Highland Fling Cocktail

Irish Cream

Loch Lomond

Penicillin

Rusty Nail

Scotch Sour

Thriller

Whisky Mac