1998 Glenrothes Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Glenrothes Vintage malts are the product of a set of casks that have been handpicked by the Malt Master from a particular year’s distillation and judged to be at the peak of possible perfection. Vintage selections account for a little more than 2% of the distillery’s production capacity making these rare spirits indeed. To date, only a small number of vintages have been released due to the exceptional quality required. Each vintage has its own unique personality and flavour profile, with each bottle bearing the date of distillation and also the year of bottling.

The 1998 bottling is the first  to carry the label signature of Gordon Motion, who has taken over as ‘Malt Master’ with the recent retirement of John Ramsay. This vintage is noted as being the first of the series to be purposely laid down with the intention of going straight into bottle. As such, stocks of this vintage are in greater supply.

Around a third of whisky has been matured in oloroso sherry casks with the remainder being ex-bourbon. Notation on the bottle depicts the youthful character of this vintage as: 'Lemon Citrus, rich ,vanilla, cinnamon hints.'

Tasting note: [Sample from the 2010 bottling] Bright gold colour. Initial nosings remain very shy, almost bland, in fact this whisky needs a good 5-10 minutes in the glass to reveal much at all, after which subdued aromas of lemon butter, honey drizzled malt, vanilla and cocoa become apparent. There’s a faint sulphury note but it remains in check. The palate also improves with aeration. Medium dry and with good concentration, it offers toasty cereals, honey and vanilla combined with a gently peppery delivery. Finishes with vanilla and cocoa, drying as the gentle spices persist. A faint sulphury note repeats in the aftertaste. 43% Alc./Vol.

Other Reviews...
1998 Vintage boasts a nose of cereal, honey and sweet, tropical fruits and raspberries. The palate is gentle and quite sweet, with vanilla custard, coconut and cinnamon notes. The finish is medium in length and spicy - Gavin D Smith, Tom Cannavan www.whisky-pages.com

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