Gordon & MacPhail Rare Vintage Smith's, Glenlivet 1974

Tasted in Whisky Magazine Issue 42 by Gavin Smith and Dave Broom.

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Tasting Notes

Gavin Smith Nose Spice and old leather sofas, caramel. Water releases more expansive floral and marzipan notes. Palate More spice, fudge, dry sherry, then peppery old oak. Finish Shorter than one might hope, quite flat, dry oak. Comment Somewhat lifeless and one-dimensional. Not the best old Glenlivet I've tasted.

Dave Broom Nose Gentle and slow to open. Rich tea biscuits, Madeira, nuts, peach juice, apple core, flowers and dried peels. A light oiliness. Complex and balanced. Palate Restrained, with sweet honeyed notes. Great width on the palate, lovely soft feel. Water shatters it. Finish Long, aromatic. Comment A fantastic old Speyside which hits a perfect balance between cask and spirit.