Glenfarclas 1965 The Family Casks 41 Years Old Cask 3861 60% 1965

Professional reviews

Serge Valentin (95)

An amazing strength at 42 years old (no typo!)

Colour: full amber with orange hues.

Nose: frankly, I’d have said this is a great old dark rum, had I nosed it blind. It starts on hyper-concentrated oak, with lots of cellulose varnish, burning fir wood, resin and whiffs of fresh putty. Then it’s the leather and the Havana tobacco, scented wax, shoe polish… There may well be some sherry behind all that but it’s really the wood itself that does the job, not the ‘possible’ wine. Keeps developing on unlit Tibetan incense sticks (natural ones, not scented like most others) and mint, getting a little more classical after that (sultanas and apricot pie). Truly superb, one to watch once it comes out. I does not need water but let’s try it with a few drops: oh yes, now we have notes of forest after the rain, humus, mushrooms, mint flavoured tea… How stunning!

Mouth (neat): enormously drinkable when unreduced – seriously. It is exactly like on the nose, beautifully oaky and tasting almost exactly like a very old rum from the best plantations. We’re getting more on spices after that superb attack, with a little nutmeg, cinnamon (a lot), Chinese anise, cloves… And a lot of candy sugar, speculoos, raisins, cough sweets, crystallised oranges, resin, mint, eucalyptus, camphor… It’s also a little tarry again and just marginally tannic. Amazing. With water: censored.

Finish: censored (okay, truckloads of mint).

Rating: 95 points. Bottle ageing will probably propel this one towards 96/97 points around 2030, so watch this space! ;-)

BOW (95)

A Rare Gem of Exceptional Age

The Glenfarclas 1965 The Family Casks 41 Years Old Cask 3861 60% is a truly remarkable whisky that embodies the essence of time and tradition. With an alcohol content of 60%, this single malt whisky represents a rare gem of exceptional age and complexity.

Distilled in 1965 and matured for an astonishing 41 years, this whisky showcases the artistry and expertise of the Glenfarclas Distillery. Each sip offers a journey through decades of careful aging, resulting in a whisky of extraordinary depth and character.

Pouring a deep amber hue, the Glenfarclas 1965 The Family Casks unveils an alluring aroma that fills the air. The nose is greeted with notes of rich toffee, dried fruits, and a hint of spice. It is a sensory experience that invites you to delve deeper into its complexities.

On the palate, this whisky unravels a symphony of flavors. Layers of sherry influence mingle with hints of dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and oak. The velvety texture and well-rounded mouthfeel create a luxurious sensation on the tongue, showcasing the impeccable craftsmanship behind this exceptional whisky.

The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering warmth and a touch of sweetness. It leaves a lasting impression, drawing you back for another sip and allowing you to savor the culmination of over four decades of aging.

The Glenfarclas 1965 The Family Casks 41 Years Old Cask 3861 60% is a testament to the dedication and passion of the Grant family, who have owned and operated the Glenfarclas Distillery for generations. It represents a legacy of craftsmanship and a commitment to producing whiskies of the highest quality.

In conclusion, the Glenfarclas 1965 The Family Casks 41 Years Old Cask 3861 60% is a rare and exceptional whisky that exemplifies the art of whisky-making. Its impressive age, complex flavors, and rich history make it a true collector's item and a delight for whisky enthusiasts seeking a truly extraordinary drinking experience.