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Gordon & MacPhail ('Smith's Glenlivet'), 21 year old, 43%

Gordon & MacPhail ('Smith's Glenlivet'), 21 year old, 43%

Scotland Single Malt Scotch Score: 8.6/10

Gordon & MacPhail ('Smith's Glenlivet'), 21 year old, 43% is a highly acclaimed Single Malt Scotch whiskey crafted in Scotland. With an impressive rating of 8.6/10, it features distinctive notes of Almond, Apple, Biscuit. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts seeking single malt scotch expressions from Scotland.

About This Whiskey

This Gordon & MacPhail bottling of Glenlivet, sourced from the Smith's Glenlivet line, is a refined and elegantly aged whisky. At 21 years old, this expression has had ample time to develop complexity and depth while retaining the distinctive characteristics of the Glenlivet distillery, known for its floral, fruity, and lightly oak-influenced profile. Bottled at 43% ABV, the whisky strikes a balance between power and subtlety, offering an easy-drinking experience with an exceptional level of sophistication and finesse. It is a superb example of what Glenlivet can produce when given the time to mature in carefully selected casks.

Tasting Notes

NOSE: The nose opens gently with delicate floral notes, such as heather and wildflowers, giving it a fresh and inviting character. Beneath this, there’s a light fruitiness, with aromas of crisp green apples, pears, and citrus zest. A gentle honey sweetness adds richness to the bouquet, while faint touches of malt and biscuit bring a pleasant bready quality to the nose. As it develops, subtle oak notes start to emerge, lending hints of vanilla and light spice, such as nutmeg and a touch of cinnamon. There’s a delicate undercurrent of fresh herbs, evoking a sense of natural elegance and balance.
TASTE: On the palate, this Glenlivet expression is smooth and well-balanced, with a gentle mouthfeel. The fruitiness from the nose—green apples and pears—comes forward, accompanied by a touch of peach and a hint of citrus. The honeyed sweetness continues on the palate, creating a lovely roundness that balances the whisky’s vibrant fruit flavors. The oak influence is light but adds a layer of depth with notes of vanilla and toasted nuts, enhancing the whisky’s complexity. A touch of maltiness emerges, with faint cereal notes and a gentle spiciness from the oak, contributing warmth without being overpowering. The whisky’s 43% ABV provides a perfect level of intensity, amplifying the flavors without overshadowing the more delicate elements.
FINISH: The finish is medium-long, smooth, and refreshing. The fruitiness lingers, with apples and pears fading slowly, leaving a clean and crisp aftertaste. The honey sweetness remains in the background, providing a pleasant balance, while subtle oak and vanilla notes continue to develop in the aftertaste. There’s a slight nutty warmth, reminiscent of toasted almonds, and the faintest trace of spice, giving the finish a gentle complexity that invites another sip. The whisky ends with a light, almost floral note, leaving a lingering sense of elegance.

Flavor Profile

Almond Apple Biscuit Bread Cinnamon Heather Honey Nutmeg Oak Pear Tart Toast Vanilla Zest

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Frequently Asked Questions About Gordon & MacPhail ('Smith's Glenlivet'), 21 year old, 43%

What type of whiskey is Gordon & MacPhail ('Smith's Glenlivet'), 21 year old, 43%?

Gordon & MacPhail ('Smith's Glenlivet'), 21 year old, 43% 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 ('Smith's Glenlivet'), 21 year old, 43%?

For the best tasting experience, pour Gordon & MacPhail ('Smith's Glenlivet'), 21 year old, 43% 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 ('Smith's Glenlivet'), 21 year old, 43%?

Gordon & MacPhail ('Smith's Glenlivet'), 21 year old, 43% 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 ('Smith's Glenlivet'), 21 year old, 43%?

The flavor profile of Gordon & MacPhail ('Smith's Glenlivet'), 21 year old, 43% features Almond, Apple, Biscuit, Bread, Cinnamon. These flavors create a complex and layered tasting experience that has been highly praised by critics and enthusiasts alike.