If you’ve not come across The Glenturret before, I was in the same boat until last year. Let me introduce you to this brand and their 2023 whisky release. According to the brand, this distillery was established in 1763. Over the years, it has undergone name changes and changed hands multiple times. Presently, it is owned by The Lalique Group, a French lifestyle company and, Swiss American, Hansjorg Wyss.
The 2023 release introduced a range of 8 new expressions: Triple Wood, Peat Smoke Aged 7, Peat Smoke Aged 10, 12 Year, 15 Year, 25 Year, 30 Year and 35 Year. I had the opportunity to sample the Triple Wood, Peat Smoke Aged 7, Peat Smoke Aged 10 and the 12 Year. So, let’s get into the whiskies.
Triple Wood – Nose: apples, oak and citrus; Palate: spices, vanilla and apples; Finish: fruity and lightly sweet; ABV: 43% Cost: $60-$75
Peat Smoke Aged 7 – Nose: Light smoke and sweetness; Palate: oak, vanilla and peat; Finish: peat smoke; ABV: 46 Cost: $70-$80
Peat Smoke Aged 10 – Nose: smoke and vanilla; Palate: vanilla, caramel and spices; Finish: woody and smoke; ABV 48.4% Cost: $70-$85
12-Year – Nose: raisins and vanilla; Palate: cinnamon, vanilla and nutmeg; Finish: ginger, fruit and oak; ABV: 46.4 Cost: $80-$100
The Peat Smoke options in this lineup should not be mistaken for Islay Peat Smoke, as they are distinct from each other. The Peat Smoke in these whiskies are more subtle and less overpowering. True peat smoke enthusiasts will be able to tell the difference. This peat smoke imparts a gentler and milder profile on the palate, deviating from the traditional style. Among the four options I sampled, my personal favorite was the 12-year expression. It showcased a perfect balance of baking spices, complemented by hints of fruit and oak. Additionally, it was smoother and easier to drink.
Do you need to go out and run to try these? No, unless you are specifically seeking a peat smoke option that is not too overpowering. I will say, I was pleasantly surprised by this distillery and their current offerings. I did enjoy them! If you are in the market to sample whiskies from a different distillery you’ve not tried before, these are a good option.
Cheers!
Note: The contents on my blog are solely my opinion. To me every palate is different! Although I may or may not like a product, I always recommend for people to try it and make up their own minds.
