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Cardhu Gold Reserve Single Malt Scotch Whisky Review

Is Cardhu Gold Reserve the ideal beginner Speyside single malt? Discover its honeyed, toffee-sweet profile—and whether it’s too simple for enthusiasts.

OVERALL RATING

6
$35
  • Mark Bostock, a whisky enthusiast specializing in independent bottlings.
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Tasting Notes

About:

The core range single malt from Speyside’s Cardhu distillery, the Gold Reserve expression is matured in hand-picked toasted oak casks. Bottled at 40% ABV.
Appearance:
Deep Gold
Nose:
Sweet honey aromas open on the nose, giving way to toffee, ripe strawberries and red apples.
Palate:
A smooth, but quite thin texture on the palate. Notes of biscuity malt and toasted oak alongside a hit of ginger and cinnamon spice. The toffee, red apple and strawberry notes from the nose then reappear.
Finish:
Short to medium, with gentle oak, biscuity malt and a touch of milk chocolate.
Comments:
A light and smooth whisky, the Cardhu Gold Reserve is a very accessible single malt. The toffee and fruit notes are pleasant giving the whisky a fresh gentle character, but there’s not much complexity, which the thin mouthfeel doesn’t help.

Admittedly Gold Reserve probably isn’t going to appeal to experienced whisky enthusiasts, cask strength fans, or peat lovers But, as an entry level malt or beginner’s whisky, or simply a sweet gentle everyday drinker it’s a safe choice at the price point.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Mark Bostock

Mark Bostock, an integral part of the Mark Littler LTD UK content writing team since 2019, brings a genuine passion for whisky, especially independent bottlings, to his work. His commitment to expanding his knowledge through attending tasting events and building his own collection enriches his contributions, blending expertise with enthusiasm.

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