Glenfiddich 23 Years 2023 Rude Olph - VAME Malts
The Scottish Glenfiddich distillery is one of the best-known names in the whisky world, but this bottling is something special: a 23-years drop, bottled by VAME Malts. The ‘Rude Olph’ promises a combination of tradition and a breath of fresh air. Will it live up to this promise? Let's find out!
Tasting Notes
Nose
The first impression? Sherry all the way! A pleasant aroma of dates and plums immediately hits the nose - ripe, dark fruit that makes you want more. This is accompanied by honey and a malty sweetness that is wonderfully balanced. After a few moments in the glass, vanilla, raspberries and even a hint of pumpkin reveal themselves. A slightly vinous touch rounds off the bouquet and adds complexity.
Palate
The first sip makes it clear that the ‘Rude Olph’ remains true to its flavour. Pumpkin and a pleasantly sweet fruitiness dominate the opening, accompanied by a hint of sultanas and biscuits. This combination feels almost cosy, like an autumn day by the fireplace. Malt also plays a key role and adds a lovely, sweet and warm note. The whisky is very mild and accessible - perfect for beginners, but experienced connoisseurs will also appreciate the harmonious balance.
Finish
Here, the whisky shows yet another facet: the finish is warming, slightly oaky and ends with a surprising note of burnt toast. This nuance gives the whole thing a little character without being too overpowering.
Thoughts
Marcel 84/100
A whisky that scores primarily with its cozy, autumnal fruitiness and leaves you wanting more – perfect for relaxed evenings by the fireplace. Its gentle character and sweet sherry notes make it an accessible pleasure, even if it lacks that certain something for a true wow moment. Overall, a pleasant companion that charmingly surprises with its warm finish and subtle toasted bread note.
Sascha 85/100
This 23-years bottling strikes a successful balance between sweet sherry aromas and a well-integrated malty structure that supports its complex flavor profile. The warming, lightly oaky finish with an unusual toasted bread note gives the whisky an interesting yet understated depth of character. Despite its mild approachability, the Glenfiddich Rude Olph manages to present a harmonious and thoughtfully crafted composition that appeals to seasoned connoisseurs.
Value for Money: Good
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82/100Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Glenfiddich 23 Years 2023 Rude Olph bottling by VAME Malts special compared to standard releases?
This bottling was independently released by VAME Malts and matured for 23 years, giving it a particularly complex sherry and fruit character. Unlike standard Glenfiddich whiskies, it displays a more intense fruitiness and a distinctive, lightly oaky finish with notes of burnt toasted bread.
How does the cask maturation influence the flavor of the Glenfiddich 23 Years Rude Olph?
The extended 23-year maturation, presumably in sherry casks, brings pronounced aromas of dates, plums, and honey. The cask aging also imparts malty sweetness, vanilla, and a warming, lightly oaky finish with a delicate note of burnt toasted bread.
Who is the Glenfiddich 23 Years 2023 Rude Olph particularly suited for?
Thanks to its mild and approachable nature, this whisky is ideal for beginners looking to explore more complex flavors. At the same time, experienced enthusiasts will appreciate the balanced harmony between fruitiness, malt, and the distinctive finish.