Glenfiddich Distillery, located in Dufftown, Moray, Scotland, was founded in 1887 by William Grant. The name ‘Glenfiddich’ translates to ‘Valley of the Deer’ in Gaelic, reflecting its picturesque setting near the River Fiddich. It is one of the few family-owned distilleries in Scotland, currently managed by the fifth generation of the Grant family. Glenfiddich has played a significant role in the global popularity of single malt Scotch whisky, especially since the 1960s when it began exporting its products. This helped establish single malts as a distinct category within the whisky market. The distillery uses traditional production methods, including 43 copper pot stills and water sourced from the Robbie Dhu springs. Today we’re going to try something up in their range: the Glenfiddich 26-Year-Old Grande Couronne.
Glenfiddich 26-Year-Old Grand Couronne Review
This Glenfiddich 26-Year-Old Grand Couronne was matured in a mix of American and European Oak casks before undergoing a 2 years French Cognac Cask Finish. Bottled at 43.8% ABV (though a 45.8% version also exists), this Glenfiddich 26-year-old Grande Couronne will set you back around £450 – £500 or over €500 for one of the 10,000 bottles.
Colour:
Gold
Nose:
Neat: Orchard fruits like peach, pear, and apricot take the lead, followed by honey, cinnamon, pineapple, marzipan, and sugar paste. There’s also a subtle nuttiness reminiscent of unsalted peanuts. Lovely and inviting.
Palate:
Neat: As the ABV suggests, this is likely reduced, which results in a somewhat thin mouthfeel. The palate begins sweet, with brown sugar and icing sugar, before introducing a citrusy sourness and a touch of pepper. Over time, notes of wood emerge, accompanied by grape must, true maple syrup (the good kind, not the cheap industrial stuff), and hints of Fins Bois and Borderies cognacs. There’s also a delightful buttery freshness, like a just-baked croissant.
Finish:
Medium in length, with dried herbs, apples, peaches, a touch of wood, subtle cognac influences, and a hint of coffee.
Comments:
While the mouthfeel is a little underwhelming, this Glenfiddich 26-year-old still delivers a fresh and fruity experience. The cognac cask finish adds a light but distinct layer, making it enjoyable and summery. However, the high price tag makes it harder to justify as an everyday dram – if only it were more affordable!
Rating: 7/10
Thanks Jens!
