Glenturret 18 Year Old. The name itself conjures images of Highland landscapes, peat smoke, and the steadfast tradition of single malt whisky making. This Speyside gem, recently revived and now part of the Maximo Espírito group, represents a return to form, a commitment to heritage, and, crucially, a spirit that delivers on its promise. We spent a considerable amount of time with a recent batch, and the results are compelling.
From the moment the bottle is opened – a weighty, impressive vessel – the aroma announces itself. It’s a robust start, dominated by dried fruit – sultanas and figs are particularly prominent – tempered by a gentle spiciness from black pepper and cinnamon. There’s a noticeable oak influence, classic for this age, but it’s skillfully integrated, not overpowering. A subtle hint of heather honey adds a touch of sweetness that rounds out the initial impression.
On the palate, the Glenturret 18 builds on the initial promise. The mouthfeel is full and creamy, a characteristic of Speyside whiskies matured largely in ex-sherry casks. The fruit notes continue, intensified now, with a wonderful burst of apricot and prune. The spice is more pronounced, adding a pleasant warmth. There’s a delicate balance between sweetness and dryness, a hallmark of a well-crafted whisky.
However, it’s the finish that truly elevates this dram. It’s exceptionally long, lingering for a remarkable 45+ seconds, carrying notes of dark chocolate, vanilla, and a touch of smoked wood. The subtle peat influence is still present, adding a layer of complexity and character.
A Return to Form
Glenturret’s revival has been largely attributed to a renewed focus on traditional methods and a meticulous selection of casks. The distillery’s commitment to using only the finest ex-sherry casks – primarily Oloroso – has clearly paid dividends. The result is a whisky that’s both intensely flavorful and incredibly balanced.
Tasting Notes:
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Nose:
Dried fruit (sultanas, figs), black pepper, cinnamon, oak, heather honey.
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Palate:
Full-bodied, creamy, apricot, prune, black pepper, spice, sherry notes.
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Finish:
Long, lingering, dark chocolate, vanilla, smoked wood, subtle peat.
Overall Impression:
The Glenturret 18 Year Old is a seriously impressive whisky. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of classic Speyside style, expertly executed. While it sits at a premium price point, the quality and complexity justify the investment. It’s a bottle that deserves a place in any serious collector’s cabinet, and a standout example of what can be achieved when tradition and skill combine.
