Professional reviews
Serge Valentin (92)
Without further ceremony… Colour: brown amber. Nose: I'm not sure we've ever been this close to very old armagnac. Starts with some wonderful chocolate and ganache, gianduja, gradually moves towards mocha and macchiato, with also wee whiffs of coconut water, goes then towards Schwarzwald cake (cherries, chocolate) and juts black tea and cigars, but never, ever gets meaty. There, we've already got an answer to our virtual questions. With water: indeed, very few meaty tones (perhaps Grisons meat, since we've been to Switzerland?) rather tar, cigars, and simply even more chocolate. Perhaps a drop of smoky 'whiskey' sauce. Crushed pine needles. Mouth (neat): oh, thin mints! Plus maracuja coulis over chocolate fondant and prunes. Or there, prunes in old armagnac. Pine resin, caraway and cloves in the background. This one's pretty tight and focused this far, to say the least. With water: oranges and more piney things popping out. I know there is some kind of short-drink where you would blend triple-sec with crème de menthe. Curiously refreshing. A tiny touch of fresher oak – they may have changed the bung recently (ha!) Finish: rather long, more on spicy marmalade, quince jam, a little pepper and juniper (oude genever), while some raw chocolate and a little coconut cream would sing in the aftertaste. Comments: assertively immaculate, without the tiniest flaw and with a very well-behaved oakiness.
BOW (92)
An Extraordinary Whisky Journey
In the realm of rare and exceptional whiskies, the Glen Grant 64 Years Old Mr. George Legacy Second Edition Cask 3483 shines as a true masterpiece. This extraordinary single malt scotch whisky was distilled in 1957 and bottled in 2021 by the esteemed independent bottler Gordon & MacPhail. With a maturation period spanning over six decades in a sherry butt, this expression represents a remarkable testament to time, craftsmanship, and the art of whisky-making. Let us embark on a journey through the mesmerizing qualities that make this whisky a true legend.
A Legendary Heritage:
Glen Grant, a renowned distillery located in the Speyside region of Scotland, has a storied history dating back to its founding in 1840. The Mr. George Legacy Second Edition pays homage to the distillery's esteemed former owner, Major James Grant, known affectionately as Mr. George. This release captures the essence of the distillery's heritage, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail and the unparalleled expertise that has been passed down through generations.
Maturity in a Sherry Butt:
The choice of a sherry butt for maturation adds a distinctive character and depth to a whisky. Cask 3483 was carefully selected to house the spirit for a remarkable 64 years. Over this lengthy period, the whisky soaked up the rich flavors of the sherry-infused wood, resulting in a harmonious marriage of dried fruits, spice, and oak. The interaction between the whisky and the sherry butt imparts a captivating complexity that elevates this expression to new heights.
Tasting Notes:
The Glen Grant 64 Years Old Mr. George Legacy Second Edition Cask 3483 unveils itself with a mesmerizing deep mahogany hue, hinting at the depth of its character. The nose offers an exquisite symphony of aromas, with notes of dark chocolate, dried figs, orange peel, and toasted almonds. On the palate, layers of richness unfold, revealing flavors of dates, raisins, Christmas cake, and a delicate hint of leather. The velvety texture caresses the palate, leading to a long and warming finish, with gentle spices, dark chocolate, and lingering oak.
A Testament to Rarity:
The release of the Glen Grant 64 Years Old Mr. George Legacy Second Edition Cask 3483 is an extraordinary event for whisky enthusiasts and collectors alike. With only a limited number of bottles available, each bearing a unique cask strength of 56.1% ABV, this whisky is a testament to exclusivity and rarity. Its age, combined with the expertise of Gordon & MacPhail, makes it a highly sought-after treasure among connoisseurs.
Conclusion:
The Glen Grant 64 Years Old Mr. George Legacy Second Edition Cask 3483 stands as a testament to the artistry of whisky-making, the passage of time, and the legacy of Glen Grant. With its unrivaled age, exceptional maturation in a sherry butt, and a limited number of bottles, this whisky embodies rarity and exclusivity. For those fortunate enough to experience its magnificence, it offers a sensory journey through history and the finest flavors of the Speyside region.
