Glenfarclas 21 Years
There are moments in the life of a whisky lover when you stand in front of a glass and know that you will never experience this again. Glenfarclas 21 years is just such a moment - a whisky that is no longer produced and has therefore become a liquid time capsule. Like an old friend that you can only visit in memories.
Tasting Notes
Nose
At first sniff, a red fruit jelly unfolds on the nose - so intense and seductive that you can't help but think of grandma's Sunday cake. Dark chocolate joins in, not intrusively, but like a well-mannered guest who knows when to make an entrance. The strawberry jam comes next, sweet and fruity, accompanied by a settled maturity that only whiskies that have spent two decades in Spanish sherry casks can develop. Slightly nutty marzipan notes flatter the bouquet, while delicate oak and cinnamon provide the necessary spice.
Palate
Strawberry syrup - as intense and pure as you would enjoy it on Italian ice cream - takes the lead. The oaky flavour follows promptly and provides structure, while citrus acidity and fruit give the palate a lively freshness. Then comes the bread - a malty, warm note reminiscent of freshly baked wholemeal bread. Dark chocolate rounds off the flavour spectrum and provides the depth that only mature whiskies can develop. The creamy mouthfeel is the icing on the cake of this aromatic work of art.
Finish
This Glenfarclas finishes medium-long and dry - like a gentleman who knows when the time is right to leave. The oaky spice returns, accompanied by black pepper, cloves and walnut.
Thoughts
Marcel 81/100
A whisky that tastes like a cozy evening by the fireplace – warm, intense, and with a touch of nostalgia that instantly brings a smile to your face. The Glenfarclas 21 Years isn’t a fireworks display, but a faithful companion for relaxed moments, full of character and soul.
Sascha 82/100
The Glenfarclas 21 Years showcases a harmonious interplay of sweet fruit, spicy oak, and delicate maltiness, distinguished by its balanced structure. Despite its elegance, it lacks a bit of complexity to truly stand out, but remains a solid representative of Speyside with a clean finish.
Value for Money: Good
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86/100Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Glenfarclas 21 Years no longer available?
The Glenfarclas 21 Years has been discontinued and is no longer produced, making it a liquid time capsule today. Such releases often occur when distilleries adjust their stock or introduce new age statements.
What role do the Spanish sherry casks play in the maturation of this whisky?
Maturation in Spanish sherry casks imparts the Glenfarclas 21 Years with its characteristic aromas of red berry compote, strawberry jam, and marzipan. These casks contribute to the sweet, fruity, and spicy complexity typical of this whisky.
How does the Glenfarclas 21 Years differ in taste from younger releases of the distillery?
Compared to younger Glenfarclas whiskies, the 21-years expression shows a noticeably greater depth and maturity with intense notes of dark chocolate, nutty marzipan, and a balanced oaky spice. The creamy mouthfeel and medium-length, dry finish also reflect the extended aging.