In the height of 2020 with the world falling apart around us all, I was lucky enough to partake in a virtual whiskey tasting through Flaviar. The experience was amazing, and during the tasting, I fell in love with a whisky that still today is in my top 5 whiskies of all time. It has taken a little over two years to find a bottle, but finally, in a small out-of-the-way liquor store near no civilization, I am a bit dramatizing this, but still, in a small store I found this dusty and MSRP-priced bottle. So today’s review comes from The Glenrothes Distillery and is of The Glenrothes Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky 18-Years Old.

From The Glenrothes Distillery website: A complex and well-rounded expression, matured only in sherry seasoned oak casks, a high proportion first fill. Bottled at natural colour with a sweet vanilla, pear and fresh ginger character.

This bottle is nearly impossible to find in NoCo, although I do currently know where one bottle is; but I am not telling. This is the only other bottle I have seen besides the one on my shelf and I do plan on purchasing it next week since this bottle is very low. Overall, this is worth trying at a bar or I would even say blindly buying a bottle if you enjoy sweet and dark fruity whisky. As I mentioned, this is one of my top 5 best whiskies of all time, and to make it even better, I highly encourage those that enjoy cigars, definitely have a pour of this with your next cigar; you will not be disappointed! With that said, let’s get our taste on!

• Nose: Blackberry, Orange, Vanilla, Cherry, Figs, and Dark Chocolate
• Palate: Dried Dark Fruits (Cherry/Blackberry), Figs/Raisins, Dark Chocolate, Pear, Vanilla, and Spice (Maybe Ginger or Black Pepper)
• Finish: Medium to Long with Lingering Flavors of Vanilla, Pear, and Black Pepper on the Tongue
• 2023 MSRP: $179
• 2023 National Average: $195
• Proof: 92
• My Rating: Save it! (If you enjoy cigars, this is a must have with your next Alex Bradley Project 40!)

Please remember, drinking bourbon is a personal adventure, so do not be afraid to drink it neat, with ice, or add some water. It’s your bourbon, you bought it, and you should enjoy it how you want to enjoy it!

Cheers! Prost! Sláinte!

Bourbon Bossman