Overview: The Glenlivet 12 Provence Edition enters the market on September 23, 2026, marking a significant departure for the Speyside distillery. This release represents the first time the brand utilizes a white-wine cask finish, distinguishing it within its core collection and Beyond Speyside series.
The Full Story
The new single malt joins the established lineup of age-statement expressions including 12, 14, and 15-year-old versions. It follows the launch of the Beyond Speyside series last year with Jamaica Edition. Kevin Balmforth, master blend for the Glenlivet, stated that the goal was to take the brand somewhere unexpected. The finishing process involves three types of French wine casks: Château Sainte Marguerite white wine, Rivesaltes, and Sauternes.
According to the brand, the Château Sainte Marguerite white-wine casks add bright citrus and elegant floral notes to the palate. The Rivesaltes casks, a sweet fortified wine, are responsible for nuttiness and warming spice. The Sauternes casks, a sweet white wine, contribute marmalade and crème brûlée flavors. Overall, white-wine casks are used much less frequently than red-wine casks to finish scotch whisky, mostly because there is a whole lot more aged red wine than white wine.
Production & Profile
Technical specifications indicate a 12-year age statement bottled at 80 proof. The flavor profile is described as vibrant orchard fruit with elegant floral notes and exceptional complexity. Specific cask influences include bright citrus and floral notes from Château Sainte Marguerite, nuttiness and warming spice from Rivesaltes, and marmalade and crème brûlée flavors from Sauternes. Tasting notes also highlight summer stone fruit, tropical fruit, vanilla, baking spice, and caramel.
There have been some notable examples in the past from distilleries like Aberfeldy, Tamnavulin, and Tullibardine. However, this marks a first for The Glenlivet specifically regarding this specific cask finish.
Brand & Industry History
The distillery is a 200-year-old establishment located in the heart of the Speyside region. While the core collection focuses on age statements, the Beyond Speyside series explores unique finishing techniques. Previous examples of white-wine cask usage have appeared from distilleries like Aberfeldy, Tamnavulin, and Tullibardine, though this marks a first for The Glenlivet specifically.
What This Means
The release introduces a secondary maturation method that is less common in the industry. A pop-up called Le Café du Whisky will coincide with the release to allow guests to discover the region’s energy. The product is a limited release priced at SRP $55 and is available at liquor stores around the nation.
Consumer Takeaway
This bottle offers a unique opportunity to experience French white-wine cask influence on a single malt whisky. The combination of three distinct wine types provides a complex palate with citrus, spice, and fruit notes for enthusiasts seeking variety in their Speyside selection.
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