Speyside (GL) 16 years 100 Proof Exceptional Cask #7

Speyside (GL) is written on the label, so we may not name where this whisky was distilled. In general, there are some very attractive distilleries in Speyside that would rather not see their names used. We have learned from a reliable source that the Single Malt of this Secret Speyside Distillery comes from a distillery located in the Livet Valley and is known to be the first legal distillery in the region after the Excise Act of 1823.

Tasting note

Nose

The nose opens with an explosion of dark, dried fruits such as sultanas, figs and dates. Notes of toasted nuts, dark chocolate and a hint of espresso then emerge. A subtle hint of orange peel and warm spices - cinnamon and cloves - adds extra complexity. The alcohol tickles lightly, but mostly invites further exploration.

Taste

At the first sip, this whisky opens powerful and full-bodied, with an intense mouthfeel. The rich sherry influences are obvious, with flavours of plums, cherries and blackcurrants dominating. This is followed by a deep layer of toffee, molasses and toasted oak, perfectly balanced by a spicy ginger and pepper note. Despite the high alcohol content, the whisky remains surprisingly smooth, with a creamy texture that carries the complex flavours beautifully.

Finish

The finish is long, warm and impressively layered. Dark chocolate, leather and tobacco form the final notes, while a hint of dried fruit and a delicate spiciness linger long on the palate.

Glenlivet Distillery

Glenlivet Distillery is located in the remote and scenic Livet Valley in the Speyside region of Scotland. Founded in 1824 by George Smith, Glenlivet was the first legal distillery in the region after the Excise Act of 1823, making it a pioneer in the Scotch whisky industry. Its location in the Livet Valley provides access to pure spring water from Josie's Well, which contributes to the distinctive purity of their whiskies.

A unique feature of Glenlivet is its use of mineral-rich water and lengthy fermentation, resulting in a smooth and fruity spirit. Glenlivet whiskies are known for their elegant and balanced flavour profiles, with notes of tropical fruit, flowers, honey and vanilla. Maturation mainly takes place in a combination of ex-bourbon and sherry casks, creating a rich and complex flavour.

The distillery continues to innovate and expand, making it one of the best-selling single malt whiskies in the world. The combination of a rich history, unique location and high-quality production makes Glenlivet a respected name in the world of Scotch whisky.

Signatory Vintage

Signatory Vintage is one of the most respected and recognised independent bottlers in the whisky world. The company was founded in 1988 by Andrew Symington and is based in Pitlochry, Scotland. Signatory Vintage is known for its impressive collection of single malt and single grain whiskies sourced from various Scottish distilleries.

In 2002 Andrew Symington acquired Edradour Distillery, one of the smallest traditional distilleries in Scotland. This has enabled Signatory Vintage to offer exclusive bottlings of Edradour whiskies alongside their regular independent bottlings.