Glen Elgin 2008/2020 - Sansibar
Sometimes you come across a whisky that makes you wonder: ‘Why exactly was this bottled?’ The Glen Elgin 2008/2020 from Zanzibar is such a case. With a whopping 58.7% ABV, it comes across as a powerhouse - but unfortunately there is little substance behind the impressive figure.
Tasting Notes
Nose
To be honest: the nose gives hope. Nougat meets vanilla, plus an interesting herbal note with sage and a hint of herbal tea. There is also a hint of pear, which adds a certain freshness. Everything has been good so far - but unfortunately it doesn't stop there.
Palate
Sobering. Yes, there is vanilla. Yes, it's creamy. But then? Then... Nothing. Thin on the palate, as if someone had forgotten to fill it with flavours. A little light fruity sweetness, but overall? Boring.
Finish
The finish? Juicy, slightly vanilla-like, a hint of oak. Sounds nice, but doesn't linger. It's gone as quickly as it comes - as if it's in a hurry to shirk its responsibilities.
Thoughts
Marcel 69/100
At first glance, the Glen Elgin 2008/2020 scores points with its robust alcohol strength, but unfortunately, it proves to be a disappointment in terms of flavor. Where are the exciting aromas that invite you to enjoy? For anyone looking for a full-bodied whisky, this one is rather a letdown – not even a dash of vanilla can save it.
Sascha 69/100
Despite a solid 58.7% ABV, the Glen Elgin 2008/2020 shows an unbalanced aroma profile with a weak flavor and a flat finish. The promised complexity is missing, making the whisky noticeably weaker in terms of balance and depth than expected. For lovers of well-balanced Speyside whiskies, this bottling is hardly recommendable.
Value for Money: Very expensive
Discover our value for money winnersRelated Reviews
Secret Speyside 13 Years - 82 Chapters to Newcastle
Last month, the madmen from 82 Chapters to Newcastle released a new bottling. This time a single cask from a secret distillery in Scotland's Speyside. It's our first bottle by this independent bottler from Germany. We are beyond excited.A total of 259 bottles are the result of the first fill bourbon cask with which something naughty must have happened. Because otherwise, how would they have gotten these flavours into the Whisky? Bottled at cask strength, the Single Malt Whisky with the unicorn can also be enjoyed slightly diluted with water.
85/100
Mortlach Midnight Dusk - Diageo Special Releases 2024
Let's forget the marketing blah-blah from Diageo for a moment - Mortlach is actually a damn good distillery. The unusual 2.81-fold distillation usually turns boring Speyside fare into complex, meaty whiskies. The "Beast of Dufftown" deserves respect. But with the Midnight Dusk, someone obviously forgot to pass this memo on.
77/100
Glen Moray Port Cask Finish
Located in the heart of Scotland’s Speyside region, Glen Moray is known for approachable, fruit-driven whiskies. Since the grand opening of its visitor centre on July 6th, 2004, the distillery has continued to evolve while staying true to its roots. Interestingly, Glen Moray played a key role in the early days of wood finishing experiments — a technique that would later make Glenmorangie world-famous. With the Port Cask Finish, Glen Moray presents a no-age-statement single malt matured in ex-bourbon barrels before receiving a finishing period in port wine casks. Bottled at a friendly 40% ABV, it's an ideal choice for those new to whisky.
77/100Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Glen Elgin 2008/2020 have little flavor depth despite its high alcohol content?
Although the Glen Elgin 2008/2020 is very strong at 58.7% ABV, it lacks flavor complexity. The high alcohol tends to overpower rather than enhance the aromas, resulting in a thin and rather uninspiring tasting experience.
How does the Glen Elgin 2008/2020 differ from other Glen Elgin releases?
Compared to other Glen Elgin releases, this Sansibar edition stands out due to its very high alcohol content and the absence of an age statement. Flavor-wise, it is less complex and more powerful than layered, distinguishing it from the classic, matured expressions.
What aromas can be expected from the Glen Elgin 2008/2020 and how long do they last?
On the nose, nougat, vanilla, herbs like sage, and a fresh pear note dominate. On the palate, vanilla and a light, bright fruit sweetness appear, but it lacks intensity. The finish is short with vanilla and woody nuances that fade quickly.