I do not often get to enjoy a whisky older than myself. While I am not too fixated on age statements, I have to admit that I find the concept of such a well-aged dram rather fascinating; to think that the liquid spent more time in the barrel than I did on this planet is quite mind-boggling. However, since I am no longer in my 20s, whiskies falling into the described category are rare and usually out of my price range. But every now and then, there is an exception, such as this sherry-finished Glenalba 35yo – Sherry Cask Finish. Brought to the market by discounter giant Lidl for the unreal price of 50 bucks, it is a blended Scotch whisky of great quality and complexion. Though I lack the experience to compare it directly to other malts aged three decades or more, I generally find the Glenalba 35 to be very precious, smooth and well-defined – an elegant and unobtrusive dram that fills the mouth with a wealth of tastes without “forcing” any of them on the pleased savourer. To meet the preferences of the mass-market audience it is primarily sold to, this bottle comes with both chill-filtration and food-coloring. If you do not mind these little touch-ups, the Glenalba 35yo – Sherry Cask Finish marks a fantastic opportunity to score a very old whisky for a more than affordable price.

by Tobi

Eye: Shining fox brown.
Nose: Aromatic and galant. Overripe grapes and waxed leather are accompanied by a whiff of muscat.
Palate: A round, deep and pleasant malt that aged with grace. Plums and blueberries mingle with licorice and chocolate mousse. In the back, a slight bitterness from violet pastilles and cocoa beans shimmers through.
Finish: Almost shy. After an impressive performance, this high-class dram takes its bows and leave the stage apace.

Type: Blended Scotch Whisky
Region: Scotland
Age: 35 Years
Alc. volume: 40%
Bottle size: 0.7 litres
Price range: ~50.00 Euro
More info: https://www.lidl.de/de/glenalba-…-blended-scotch-whisky-35-jahre-40/p232444