Scotland, Eastern Highlands/Speyside. Distillery operational. Owner: Brown Forman

It was under the wardship of Allied Domecq, the distillery's owners until the early 2000s, that Glendronach made a name for itself amongst fans of sherry cask single malts. As well as an outstanding, generous and distinguished 12 year old version, the 18 year old versions from 1972, 1976 and 1977 (written on the back of the bottle) particularly attracted the attention of connoisseurs. In the early 90s, several bottlings of The Glendronach 25 Year old 1968 produced for the Japanese market (ANA Edition) and American market (sold partly in Europe) caught the eye of those in the know and allowed a glimpse of the quality of the casks maturing in the distillery's vaults. But it would not be until 2008, with the arrival of Billy Walker at the helm, that this sleeping beauty would truly reveal her potential.As we begin the 21st century, while many have long ago swapped their Andalusian attire for a more round and consensual style, The Glendronach remains centre stage by regularly releasing single cask, vintage versions matured entirely in sherry casks, much to the delight of whisky collectors and enthusiasts.

This Scottish single malt, straight from the Highlands, is non-chillfiltered and presents no peaty notes. After spending many years in sherry casks, these have had a subtle influence on the spirit, imparting rich noes of fresh red fruits and elegant vanilla. The GlenDronach distillery was owned and named after its 1826 founder Allardice. This bottling bearing his name marks the distillery’s return to the forefront of the single malt market. Spicy notes on an elegant background of cocoa are marked by excellent tension on the palate. The whisky’s 46% ABV is superb.