Glenlivet, renowned for its Speyside heritage and consistently high-quality single malts, has returned with a highly anticipated release: the Small Batch Collection. After a hiatus of nearly a year, three distinct cask-strength expressions are now available, promising a deeper dive into the brand’s versatility and showcasing the nuanced effects of different cask combinations.
This latest collection represents a significant addition to Glenlivet’s already impressive lineup, specifically highlighting how the selection of casks – and the resulting maturation processes – dramatically impact the final character of the spirit. Each of the three releases is bottled at cask strength and non-chilled-filtered, a hallmark of Glenlivet’s commitment to presenting a genuinely authentic tasting experience.
Glenlivet 17 Years Old Wildflower Honey
This expression clocks in at 17 years old and is matured exclusively in first-fill American oak casks. Priced at €154 (US$179), it offers a rich, complex flavor profile, though specific details on the honey’s origins or contributing factors haven’t been publicly disclosed.
Glenlivet 19 Years Old Indulgent Chocolate
Perhaps the most intriguing of the three, the 19-year-old Indulgent Chocolate features a carefully curated blend of first-fill American oak, first-fill Sherry, and second-fill ex-Scotch barrels. Retailing at €220 (US$256), this expression is intended to deliver a decadent, chocolate-driven experience, although the precise level of chocolate influence is yet to be fully documented.
Glenlivet 20 Years Old Orchard Fruitiness
Completing the collection is the 20-year-old Orchard Fruitiness, matured in a combination of first-fill American oak, second-fill ex-Scotch barrels, and second-fill American oak hogsheads. This limited release of 2,736 bottles, priced at €300 (US$349), focuses on orchard fruit characteristics. Further specifics regarding the particular fruit sources or dominant flavors remain confidential.
What This Means for Consumers
The return of the Small Batch Collection caters to the growing consumer demand for cask-strength expressions and unique aging programs. Glenlivet’s continued experimentation with cask selection allows enthusiasts to explore a broader range of flavor profiles within the brand’s signature style. The limited availability further elevates the collectibility and exclusivity of these releases.
Pros and Cons
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Pros:
Cask-strength offerings, limited availability, diverse cask combinations, commitment to non-chill filtration.
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Cons:
Limited quantities mean high demand and potential difficulties in securing bottles, price points represent a premium investment for whisky collectors.
Currently available globally at exclusive retailers and The Glenlivet’s home in Speyside, Scotland, the Small Batch Collection represents a significant moment for Glenlivet, solidifying its place at the forefront of Scotch innovation.
