Glenlivet 12yo (40%, OB, +/- 2008) George & J. G. Smith Ltd.

Glenlivet; what can you say about it but it’s everywhere and thus suffers from its own success somewhat; malt enthusiasts frequently look for something new. A mistake because the standard 12 year old is a cracker and great value for the money (and would be even better at 43%…). 

The nose is delicate, much more subtle as one would expect from an Speyside single malt, with fruit (think banana, apricots, fruitcake and cherries) along with some really fragrant oak spiciness, cedar and gentle pine resin. The aromas are not dominated by the wood but beautifully compliment the fruit. Hidden way back in the recesses of the aromas is the ever so slight hint of smoke and after a few minutes in the glass the malt jumps to the fore. A very enjoyable collection of aromas. The taste is a mirror image of the nose; fruit, spicy oak, mild smoke and malt, all very well intermingled. The fruity sweetness is complimented by some toffee and honey, the malt is excellent. The finish is at first hints of leather and pine followed by the fruit, bitter cocoa and malt. It is quite long and the malt, the fruit and the spicy oak all jostle for position. The oak and the malt succeed in the end and after a few minutes the malt is triumphant…..not a dram to ignore.

C$65

Score 85 Points