Although single malt Scotch whisky producer Glenfiddich has just released a new whiskey, people who live in Scotland where it was made won’t be able to get their hands on a bottle.
Instead, Glenfiddich 14 Year Old, which was aged for that time period in American oak bourbon barrels, is available only in the U.S. as “a celebration of the American spirit,” according to a press release. It’s got a bourbon heart and the soul of a single malt, and the result is a sweet and vibrant whisky as good as any of Glenfiddich’s other expressions.
Glenfiddich’s malt master Brian Kinsman had hoped the American oak casks used to mature the whisky would play a big role in its final tasting profile, which is full of hints of citrus, caramelized brown sugar and cinnamon.
“By maturing this expression in bourbon casks, we’ve created a beautifully intense flavor, reflective of the relentless passion we have for producing incredible single malts,” he said in the press release. “With notes of fresh oak and velvety caramel, our 14 Year Old remains true to Glenfiddich’s heritage of producing fruity and deeply flavored whiskies and is the perfect marriage of bourbon sweetness and Scotch complexity.”
It’s best by itself (albeit cut with water, of course), but this Scotch Old Fashioned is also a lovely way to show off what the Scotch can do in a cocktail. Look for it in stores this fall for $50.
Scotch Old Fashioned
3 oz. Glenfiddich 14 Year Old
1 tsp. water
3 dashes bitters
1 sugar cube
1 slice orange
1 maraschino cherry
In an old-fashioned glass, muddle the bitters and water into the sugar cube using the back of a teaspoon. Almost fill the glass with ice cubes and add the Scotch. Garnish with the orange slice and cherry.
— Drinks Mixer
About the Author
