Professionelle Bewertungen
Serge Valentin (84)
Colour: pale gold.
Nose: seriously, it’s not extremely different from the Mackinlay at first nosing, which really surprises me. Sure it’s a little rounder and less sooty but other than that, it’s also a rather big and nervous malt whisky. The development is rather different, though, with more oranges and ripe apples, but the grassiness is rather similar. They really diverge after ten minutes, this one becoming lighter (but it’s no light whisky), fruitier and, in essence, ‘younger’.
Mouth: this is punchy! The oak’s relatively big while the spirit is relatively light, but the combination works in my opinion. Quite malty and very ‘malt whisky’ (I know that sounds silly but I think it’s a profile that’s ‘right in the middle’ – oh well…), with also notes that are often to be found in the aged versions of Glenfiddich, between beeswax, honey, nutmeg, wood polish… Also cartloads of apples (ripe, overripe, cooked, dried…)
Finish: medium long, rather soft and, just like the Shackleton, rather fruitier. More apples and touches of pears – I often find pears in Glenfiddich.
Comments: very good, I believe it shows to a fairly ‘general’ public that there’s something else behind the ‘easier’ core range. Something that the 15yo CS already did in the past.
Gal Granov (85)
Nose : Apples pears is butter. Malt and honey some vanilla. A cookers delight.
Palate: Oak , malt honey and some spice. Again quite buttery. Nuts and sugar as well as baked apples.
Finish : malty nutty. Baked apples.
Bottom line:
I am not a huge Glenfiddich fan, and i had high expectations from this bottle, as i heard it was good from more than one person… At first tasting i was a bit disappointed with it, but on second tasting, it appealed to me more, and i really began to enjoy it. It’s not a standard Glenfiddich, and it’s well made. There are some older casks inside – up to 30 years. The packaging is interesting, and surly would look good on your shelf, that’s for sure. It’s very good, yet not great.
BOW (87)
Title: Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix: A Whisky Resurrected from the Winter Chill
Introduction:
In the world of single malt Scotch whisky, few expressions carry the intrigue and mystique of the Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix. Crafted as a limited edition release, this exceptional whisky has earned its place among the most coveted bottles for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Let's delve into the story behind Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix, exploring its unique maturation, bottling details, and the winter-inspired journey that gave rise to its name.
Origins of Glenfiddich:
Founded by William Grant in 1886, the Glenfiddich Distillery in Dufftown, Scotland, has been a pioneer in the world of Scotch whisky. The distillery's commitment to traditional craftsmanship and innovation has resulted in a diverse range of expressions, each contributing to the legacy of this iconic brand.
Snow Phoenix: A Tale of Resilience:
The Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix was born from an unforeseen event – the heavy snowfall that blanketed the distillery in January 2010. The weight of the snow caused the roofs of several warehouses to collapse, putting thousands of casks at risk. In a remarkable display of resilience and ingenuity, the Glenfiddich team decided to create a limited edition whisky using the affected casks, giving rise to the Snow Phoenix.
Maturation on American Oak & Oloroso Sherry Casks:
The Snow Phoenix is a blend of whiskies matured in American Oak and Oloroso Sherry casks, contributing to its rich and complex flavor profile. American Oak imparts vanilla and oak notes, while the Oloroso Sherry casks add a layer of sweetness, dried fruits, and a hint of spice. The marriage of these cask types creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that sets the Snow Phoenix apart.
Bottling Details:
The Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix was bottled at a bold 47.6% ABV, allowing the full spectrum of flavors to shine through. Released in 2010, this expression is a time capsule that captures the spirit of innovation and adaptability that defines Glenfiddich.
Limited Edition: Only 12,000 Bottles Worldwide:
As a testament to its rarity and exclusivity, Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix was released in a limited quantity of only 12,000 bottles worldwide. This scarcity has elevated its status among collectors and enthusiasts, making each bottle a treasure to be cherished and shared on special occasions.
Tasting Notes:
Upon nosing the Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix, expect a burst of orchard fruits, honey, and a touch of oak. The palate unfolds with layers of vanilla, toffee, and a subtle spiciness, culminating in a long and warming finish. The whisky's unique journey from the snowy warehouse collapse to the bottle is reflected in every nuanced sip.
Conclusion:
Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix is more than a whisky; it's a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Glenfiddich distillery. From the challenges posed by the winter snowfall emerged a limited edition masterpiece that captivates the senses and tells a story of adaptation and innovation. As you savor the Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix, you not only enjoy a remarkable whisky but also raise a glass to the spirit of overcoming adversity and crafting beauty from unexpected circumstances.
Angus McRaild (84)
I remember people were doing a fair bit of sniggering when this came out given that the story had a whiff of opportunism about it. However, I remember liking the whisky itself at the time and I don't think I ever tried it since, so let's correct that right now. Colour: pale gold. Nose: you do indeed get the impression there was a fair mix of ages involved. There's quite a few varieties of honey, brioche, crystallised citrus peels, candied hazelnuts, plum eau de vie, straw and linens. I find it a very attractive and easy nose. Mouth: the ABV works well here as I find so often with OB Glenfiddichs that the measly bottling strengths hurt them. Here's there's an oiliness to the mouthfeel with impressions of malt syrup, bergamot, lanolin and green apple peelings which all works very well. Some lemon cough drops, farmhouse cider and a few crunchy cereals. Indeed, it feels almost like a more rustic style of Glenfiddich. Mind you, what's more rustic than a collapsed warehouse roof? Finish: medium and rather peppery, nicely sweet, more of these robust and toasty cereal notes and some citrons. Comments: I still like it, quite a lot in fact. It feels like a full-bodied, extremely 'pop the cork and go' type of Glenfiddich. The ABV does a lot of heavy lifting here, but the assemblage of ages also feels pretty smart.
