Professional reviews
BOW (91)
Glenugie 32 Years Old: A Symphony of Complexity from Signatory Vintage's Cask Strength Collection
In the realm of rare and distinguished single malt Scotch whiskies, the Glenugie 32 Years Old, bottled by the esteemed independent bottler Signatory Vintage, stands as a pinnacle of craftsmanship and aging mastery. Distilled on the 15th of October 1977, and bottled on the 19th of March 2010, this expression is a testament to the legacy of the Glenugie distillery, which ceased operations in 1983. Cask Strength Collection's Cask 1, with a robust 58.6% ABV, delivers an unapologetically bold and intricate tasting experience that whisky enthusiasts covet.
Maturation and Finish:
Matured on a combination of Hogsheads and blessed with an Oloroso Sherry Butt Finish, this Glenugie 32 Years Old has absorbed the essence of time and the richness of carefully selected casks. The marriage of Hogsheads and Oloroso Sherry Butt imparts a symphony of flavors, contributing to the depth and complexity that define this exceptional expression. With only 670 bottles released, each one is a rare testament to the artistry of the distillery and the discerning selection of Signatory Vintage.
Nose:
From the moment the Glenugie 32 Years Old graces the senses, it asserts its presence with vigor. The nose is a captivating dance of fruitiness, nuttiness, and sherry-infused richness. Aromas reminiscent of a rum pot, salty dark beef broth, dried game meat, and pipe tobacco intermingle with the freshness of schnapps chocolates. This energetic and powerful introduction sets the stage for the sensory journey that follows.
Taste:
Upon savoring this aged elixir, one is met with a powerful and dry palate that retains its inherent fruitiness. Sherry notes, tart dried autumn fruits, rose hips, hawthorn, and plums unfold, creating a tapestry of flavors that evolve with each sip. The presence of greasy leather chairs, old oak, subtle smoke, tobacco, bitter herbal liqueurs, and pine honey adds layers of complexity, offering a tasting experience that is both bold and nuanced.
Finish:
The Glenugie 32 Years Old leaves an enduring impression with a finish that is long, fruity, and sherry-like. Resinous and bitter herbal notes linger on the palate, a testament to the whisky's age and the interplay of cask influences. The finish is a fitting conclusion to a journey that transcends time and showcases the depth of flavors that only a well-matured and carefully crafted single malt can offer.
Conclusion:
In the world of Scotch whisky, the Glenugie 32 Years Old from Signatory Vintage's Cask Strength Collection is a rare gem, a liquid legacy from a distillery that has become a part of history. With its limited release of 670 bottles, each one represents a journey through time and a celebration of the artistry inherent in the whisky-making process. For enthusiasts seeking a bold and complex experience, the Glenugie 32 Years Old stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of a bygone distillery and the skillful hands of Signatory Vintage.
