Glenlivet 13 Years 1st Fill American Oak
Regional exclusives often hold a special charm. The Glenlivet 13 Years 1st Fill American Oak, crafted specifically for the French market, showcases how even within the classic Speyside style, intriguing variations can arise. Matured in first-fill American oak casks and bottled at 40% ABV, this whisky promises an easy-drinking experience. But what makes it stand out?
Tasting Notes
Nose
On the first nosing, the classic Speyside character immediately shines through: light sawdust and sweet strawberries with cream and sugar evoke bright, fruity aromas. A subtle floral soap note adds complexity, complemented by hints of toast, pomelo, and lemon sherbet. The bouquet feels inviting and harmonious, with a sweet undertone that’s pleasant but not overly complex.
Palate
The first sip confirms its approachable nature. Creamy and smooth, it glides over the palate, delivering notes of vanilla, almond, and white chocolate reminiscent of cocoa butter. The juicy sweetness of honeydew melon adds a fresh, light dimension. This whisky clearly benefits from the influence of American oak, known for imparting mild and sweet flavors.
Finish
The finish is buttery smooth but relatively short. Subtle hints of orange and a touch of oak create a pleasant conclusion. It’s a whisky that quietly exits the stage, leaving a gentle impression.
Thoughts
Marcel 78/100
A whisky that convinces without much fuss and delivers exactly what you expect from a cozy evening: sweet, soft, and pleasantly unobtrusive. The Glenlivet 13 Years 1st Fill American Oak is like a relaxed chat with an old friend – straightforward, likeable, and simply comforting. If you’re not after big dramatic effects, here you have a charming companion for light moments of enjoyment.
Sascha 78/100
The Glenlivet 13 Years 1st Fill American Oak impresses with a balanced harmony of fruity sweetness and a mild wood note typical of first-fill American oak. Its moderate complexity and gentle, though short, finish make it a solid Speyside whisky, especially suitable for beginners or as a relaxed everyday dram. Technically clean, but without profound depth or exceptional structure.
Value for Money: Good
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What distinguishes the Glenlivet 13 Years 1st Fill American Oak from other Glenlivet releases?
The Glenlivet 13 Years 1st Fill American Oak matured exclusively in first-fill American oak casks, giving it a particularly mild and sweet aromatic profile. Additionally, it was bottled specifically for the French market, which sets it apart from classic Glenlivet whiskies through its accessibility and fruity notes.
How does the first-fill American oak cask influence the flavor of this whisky?
First-fill American oak casks impart intense vanilla and almond notes as well as a creamy texture to the whisky. In this Glenlivet, they provide the characteristic sweet lightness with aromas of white chocolate, honeydew melon, and a buttery-soft finish typical of American oak.
Is the Glenlivet 13 Years 1st Fill American Oak suitable for beginners?
Yes, with 40% alcohol by volume and its soft, creamy flavor, this whisky is very approachable. The fruity and sweet aromas make it an uncomplicated introduction to the world of Speyside whiskies, without being too complex or heavy.