The Glenfiddich, a legendary Speyside distillery that pioneered the global popularity of single malt whisky in the early 1960s, has emerged as the star of the recent TAG Global Spirits Awards. The Las Vegas-based competition, launched in 2022 by a group of industry experts, aims to celebrate the world’s best and emerging spirits brands.
From hundreds of scotch entries received, only three expressions were awarded the coveted “Best In Show” status, two of which came from The Glenfiddich.
The first expression was the 21 Year Old Reserva Rum Cask Finish, a single malt whisky matured in barrels seasoned with cane spirit. This unique aging process imbues the whisky with flavours of molasses, marzipan, and brown sugar, creating a rum-like character.
The second award-winning Glenfiddich expression was the 23 Year Old Grand Cru. This whisky spends time in what the brand calls “rare French cuvee casks,” resulting in top notes of brioche and baked apple. Despite its high price point (early twice that of its 21-year-old counterpart, which retails for around £175), the 23 Year Old Grand Cru has proven its worth, having also won a Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Awards within two years of becoming part of the permanent portfolio.
The final “Best In Show” winner is the Glen Moray 21 Year Old Port Wood Finish. Aged for two years in Portuguese sweet wine casks, this whisky boasts a deep cooper hue, dark chocolate flavors, and a full, lush body.
More results from the TAG 2024 awards will be available later this spring.
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