GlenAllachie 9 Years Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish - The Wood Collection
In the limited Wood Collection, GlenAllachie showcases the effect that different types of sherry can have on whisky maturation. They transferred their Single Malt, aged for 6.5 years in ex-bourbon casks, into casks previously filled with different sherries: Fino, Amontillado, and Oloroso. After a total maturation period of 9 years, all three variants were bottled at 48%, without coloring or chill filtration. On invitation from Kirsch Import and Billy Walker himself, we had the pleasure of comparing these three bottlings side by side, focusing on how cask management and selection influence the aroma.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Even in the Oloroso maturation, the typical GlenAllachie character shines through: heather honey, vanilla, and an impressive malty sweetness. On top of that, there are intense, rich, and quite typical sherry aromas. We detect plums, overripe cherries, and candied oranges. Additionally, there is a pleasant spiciness of cinnamon, nutmeg, perhaps a hint of cloves, and a certain herbaceousness. The finish then becomes slightly peppery, with a touch of bitterness and a hint of leather.
Palate
On the palate, the malt delivers what the nose promises. Full-bodied, oily, and voluminous, this whisky fills the mouth. The sweetness is complex, comprising malt, red fruits like cherries, and a hint of strawberries. After a short while, the spicy notes become more pronounced. Coffee grounds, dark chocolate, and again the light aroma of old leather are accompanied by the taste of black pepper. There is also a pronounced oak presence, which, however, does not carry the initially suspected bitterness.
Finish
The finish is very long and warming. Intense oak is accompanied by the lingering flavor of dark chocolate. The spiciness recedes somewhat, giving way to the aroma of dried plums.
Thoughts
Marcel 82/100
This GlenAllachie Oloroso is like a cozy chat by the fireplace: full-bodied, warm, and with a seductive sweetness of red fruits and chocolate that’s simply a joy. Anyone who loves sherry-matured whisky will find here an intense yet never overwhelming character – a true evening of enjoyment bottled up!
Sascha 79/100
The 9-years GlenAllachie finished in Oloroso impresses with its complex balance between heavy sherry intensity and malty sweetness, while the spicy oak provides solid structural support to the malt. Despite the opulent aromas, the whisky remains harmonious and well-balanced, even though the freshness of the ex-bourbon casks recedes noticeably.
Value for Money: Fair
Discover our value for money winnersThis product was kindly provided to us by Kirsch Import. This does not influence our rating. No payments or other benefits were received in exchange for this provision.
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82/100Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish influence the flavor of the GlenAllachie 9-years whisky?
The Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish imparts intense sherry aromas to the GlenAllachie 9-years, such as plums, overripe cherries, and candied oranges. Additionally, it brings spicy notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, along with a subtle leather and pepper finish.
Why was the GlenAllachie 9-years whisky bottled without chill filtration and coloring?
Bottling without chill filtration and without added coloring preserves the whisky’s natural aromas and original color. This allows for a more authentic tasting experience and showcases the quality of the cask management.
How important is cask management in the maturation of the GlenAllachie 9-years Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish?
Cask management is crucial, as the whisky initially matures for 6.5 years in ex-bourbon barrels before being transferred to Oloroso sherry casks. This combination significantly influences the whisky’s aroma profile, complexity, and character.