The GlenDronach Distillery Unveils Its Cask Strength Scotch Single Malt

One of the more wonderful things about enjoying a Scotch single malt whisky is the likelihood you can try a cask strength version that’s been aged in some type of ex-sherry barrel. There’s something about the interplay between sherry notes and that uncut variation which does quite nicely with one’s taste palate. A master distillery around this style is The GlenDronach, and the distillery team there recently unveiled the eighth release of their cask strength style offering.

The GlenDronach Cask Strength Batch 8, according to those behind it, matured for 10 years in a combination of ex-Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry casks from Andalucía, Spain. Under the watch of master blender Dr. Rachel Barrie it was bottled at a hearty 61% ABV, and the whisky is both non-chill filtered and of natural color, the latter due to absorbing color naturally over time from the Spanish oak in which it resides.

“The GlenDronach Cask Strength Batch 8 is incredibly rich and full-bodied, the result of years of slow maturation in Pedro Ximénez puncheons, quarter casks and Oloroso sherry butts,” said Barrie in a prepared statement. “Casks were individually selected, combined and bottled at natural cask strength to deliver maximum character and depth.

“I hope the most discerning palates will sip, savour and appreciate the full-bodied character of Cask Strength Batch 8.”

As it stands now plans call for this Scotch to be released globally starting this month. Official tasting notes for Batch 8 suggests one can “sip layers of sherry cask matured character unfolding slowly over time; from mocha, dark chocolate and caramel espresso to cherry cake layered with sultana and plum; the depth of character is boundless. The texture is like sipping velvet with a burst of sumptuous fruits, warm spices and intense dark chocolate which crescendos into The GlenDronach’s signature long and richly satisfying finish.”