Editor’s Note: This whisky was provided to us as a review sample by Sazerac. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review. It should also be noted that by clicking the buy link towards the bottom of this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.
Not every bottle of whisky comes from the distiller. Sometimes it takes a treasure hunter to dive into the dark recesses of forgotten barrels to reveal the lost gold encased in aging casks.. Such expeditions are the specialty of the Last Drop Distillers, owned by Sazerac. They scour the globe for casks, unearthing lost spirits, then bottling and distributing them, to honor the mastery within.
Scotch has many defining characteristics, based on where they are distilled. From the heavily peated flavors of Islay, to the mineral and sea water brine of the Highlands and Speyside and more, bold flavors abound and the tastes of a nation come forth. many find the near medicinal and smoky notes to be off-putting and the defining characters of scotch that keep them at bay from diving into the rich history of whiskey possibilities. But upon further exploration, the palate will be treated to a swath of flavors that are are sure to entice and hook any whiskey lover, if given the chance.
This particular release I have heralds from 1970, and is selected from a batch of barrels from Glenrothes. Its maturity shines forth. This is not the first release of theirs from the Glenrothes library. But a treasure it is, highlighting the Scottish tradition of distillation of the Speyside distilleries. With every taste you are transported to the craggy hillsides and lush green pastures that Scotland is renowned for. The mineral rich waters used to craft Scotch grabs the taster and envelopes the palette in the traditions that leave many to dub Scotch as the gold standard for whiskey.
The noses and palates behind the scenes at Last Drop have gone into hyper mode with this selection and delivered to the public a premier tasting selection, that if you are lucky enough to happen upon one of their bottles, you should do yourself the favor of investing in trying it. If you can afford it, that is.
Tasting Notes: Last Drop 1970 Glenrothes Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Vital Stats: Distilled in 1970, bottled in 2020. Drawn from three casks – Cask No 10586 yielded 103 bottles, Cask No 16207 produced 87 sets and Cask No 10589 filled 96 bottles, making a total of just 286 bottles available worldwide. proof varies by cask (ABV of Cask No 10586 is 45.3%; Cask No 10588 is 44.1%; and Cask No 10589 is 45%). prices around $6,250.
Appearance: Its color is light blonde.
Nose: During my sampling, on different days I caught different notes. My first tasting, I caught a pretty distinct peaty note and another day I caught a bright fruity scent of Bosc pear. There are hearty earth and leather notes that are strong but not off putting. These were followed by a buttery hint of caramel and a nutty finish.
Trending Stories
Palate: The smooth and buttery mouthfeel is accompanied by the pleasantly smoky, peat note. The earthy flavors open up with pleasant fruity and floral notes. There is a soft heat that wakes up the palette without distracting from the flavor profile. A subtle salinity is present as well as a hint of currant and dried apricot on the back end of the flavor.
Latest News