Glenlivet Distiller’s Reserve Review

I picked up this mini of the Glenlivet Distiller’s Reserve on my recent trip to England. I had it on my flight in and thought it was by far one of the best in-flight Scotch offerings I’ve seen and had. On the flight back I bought two and pocketed one to give it a full rundown when I was back on the ground and not jet-lagged; that flight from Los Angeles to London and back is no joke.

Glenlivet Distiller's Reserve

Reading the description of this whiskey it sounds like it’s basically the same idea/process as the Glenfiddich 15, just not aged for 15 years… and distilled at Glenlivet… and about $25 more than the Glenfiddich. Which I happen to think is a decent whisky. Won’t blow you away, but since it’s a similar process it’s a good point of comparison for the Scotch review below.

Glenlivet Distiller’s Reserve Review: Details and Tasting Notes

In Glenlivet’s Words:

“Spending time in the Solera Vat is what gives this expression in the signature The Glenlivet Master Distiller’s Reserve range its truly exceptional character. Alan Winchester, our Master Distiller, first triple cask matures the spirit in traditional oak, American first-fill and ex-sherry casks. He then selects the best of these casks to transfer to the Solera Vat. The vat, which is never emptied, creates a rich whisky that develops in intensity and complexity every year.”

Glenlivet Reserve Details (price, mash bill, cask type, ABV, etc.)

Details (price, mash bill, cask type, ABV, etc.)

Region: Highlands, Scotland

Distiller: Glenlivet
Mash Bill: 100% Malted Barley
Cask: ex-Bourbon, First Fill ex-Bourbon, ex-Sherry
Age: NAS (3+ years)
ABV: 40%

Price: $75

Tasting Notes

EYE
Amber

NOSE
Ripe orchard fruit, caramel, marshmallow, spice, honey and a bit of char.

PALATE
Tart fruit, dried orchard fruit, honey, malt, toffee and nuts.

FINISH
Med-short -> Honey, dried fruit, nuts, malt and sweetness.

BALANCE, BODY & FEEL
Ok balance, light body and a watery feel.

smells great, but rather light on the palate. An interesting thing to try, but wouldn’t go out of your way for it.

Glenlivet Distiller’s Reserve Review: Overall and Score

Not too impressive on the palate, rather flat, light and lifeless, but the nose is fantastic. I could sit and sniff this one for hours on end; it’s so expressive and complex it’s a little astounding. Though, the amazingness of the aroma makes the somewhat blandness of the palate even more noticeable. What’s there, on the palate, isn’t bad, it’s nicely balanced and not-terrible… but far from exciting or interesting.

If the Glenlivet Distiller’s Reserve was more readily available, and not carrying a TR price, I’d recommend it to new Scotch drinkers. But as it sits it’s something I’d recommend trying a pour of when you’re traveling abroad and, in the meantime, I’ll keep recommending the Glenfiddich 15 which is slightly better, ~33% cheaper and readily available.

SCORE: 84/100 (B)

Glenlivet Distiller's Reserve Review