Gordon & MacPhail Glenlivet 1973 Cask Strength

Tasted in Whisky Magazine Issue 28 by Michael Jackson and Martine Nouet.

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Tasting Notes

Michael Jackson Nose Peaches. Dessert grapes. Palate A box of dark chocolate pralines with creamy fillings: fudge, apricot, mint. All of these flavours in a glass of whisky. Finish Concentrated sweetness, balanced by fruity acidity. As though raisins give way to fresh grapes. Comment Some of the older Smith’s Glenlivets are too woody for me, but this one is a delight.

Martine Nouet Nose Tangy, ethereal. A full basket of orchard fruit. Pear poached in vanilla. Distant almond notes. Palate Sweet and fruity (mango, pear). Quite oily. Velvety mouthfeel. Becomes spicy (white pepper). Finish Leafy, dry but lingering. Finishes with walnut peel bitterness. Comment Surprisingly vibrant for its age. There is a gap between the sharp nose and soothingly smooth palate. Water reconciles both. Would go well with a pear and almond pie.