Glenfiddich Select Cask
The Glenfiddich Select Cask brings with it exciting promises: an exclusive maturation in European, Bourbon and red wine casks. This cask selection is intended to give the whisky a rich, versatile range of flavours and is part of the Glenfiddich Cask Collection. With its 40 % vol. and the typical charm of a Speyside whisky, it is aimed primarily at beginners and lovers of soft, accessible whiskies. But does the Select Cask live up to its promise?
Tasting Notes
Nose
The aroma of this whisky is quite restrained at first, almost closed. Some citrus tickles the nose and brings freshness to the slightly dull, restrained structure. Delicate vanilla and a hint of hay unfold underneath, accompanied by a hint of metallic and herbal notes. Overall, the Glenfiddich Select Cask is balanced and pleasant, but remains rather restrained and quiet in its flavour - a fragrance that promises a lot, but does not yet fully reveal itself.
Palate
On the palate, the Glenfiddich Select Cask is as smooth as butter. The velvety texture dominates the flavour here, and the whisky actually glides down the tongue without any sharpness or distracting edges. The vanilla flavour blends subtly with light oak and there is a hint of malt. But while the mouthfeel is pleasant, there are no real highlights. The flavour, like the aroma, remains rather pale and restrained, with little depth and hardly any surprising moments.
Finish
The finish of the Glenfiddich Select Cask is short and inconspicuous. A brief hint of oak spice flickers up, but before you know it, the last notes evaporate. What remains is an overall impression that is not very lasting, which emphasises the gentle character of the whisky, but unfortunately leaves hardly any reverberation.
Thoughts
Marcel 63/100
The Glenfiddich Select Cask is a gentle, unpretentious whisky that, with its soft texture, especially appeals to beginners. However, for those seeking excitement and character, it lacks that certain something – it remains more of a subdued background tune than a true star of enjoyment.
Sascha 63/100
From an analytical perspective, the Glenfiddich Select Cask impresses with its balanced yet uncomplicated structure and a buttery-smooth texture. The lack of depth and a short, unremarkable finish limit its appeal for seasoned connoisseurs who expect more sophistication.
Value for Money: Fair
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What makes the maturation of the Glenfiddich Select Cask special?
The Glenfiddich Select Cask matures in a combination of European, Bourbon, and Red Wine casks. This variety of casks is intended to give the whisky a complex and versatile aroma profile, ranging from vanilla through subtle oak spice to fruity notes.
Who is the Glenfiddich Select Cask particularly suited for?
With its 40% alcohol by volume and soft, approachable flavor, the Glenfiddich Select Cask is especially aimed at beginners and lovers of mild Speyside whiskies who are looking for a gentle, unobtrusive whisky without sharp edges or extremes.
Why does the Glenfiddich Select Cask come across as rather restrained in taste and aroma?
The Glenfiddich Select Cask presents itself with a subtle and balanced nose and palate, without strong or dominant notes. The combination of casks provides a delicate but not intense aromatic profile, which is why it feels gentle and straightforward, without pronounced highlights.