Not long ago, Speyside giants Glenfiddich revealed part three of their Experimental Series called Winter Storm. While I have not yet had the pleasure of trying this 21-year-old Scotch whisky finished in Canadian ice wine casks, I am lucky to call a bottle of its predecessor my own. Project XX originally hit retail shelves in autumn of last year and has a particularly exciting backstory. The malt is composed from the exquisite contents of twenty rare barrels which got selected by Glenfiddich’s brand ambassadors in a special Project XX gathering. All in all, 17 bourbon casks, 2 sherry casks and 1 port cask were picked, each of which contained spirit matured between 10 and 18 years. The result is a full-of-character single malt Scotch whisky of masterful make, staggering complexity and peculiar “coyness”. Though it is not a permanent addition to the Glenfiddich range, Project XX is still readily available for round about 50 bucks (at least that is what they charge for it here in Germany). If you are a ‘Fiddich fan (or want to become one), you better grab your bottle without much delay!
by Tobi
Eye: Polished gold with a spot of rusty copper.
Nose: Sweetish, warm and copious with crumbled shortbread, shredded vanilla pods and thick honey. Glenfiddich’s typical freshness is there as well in the form of crunchy apples and juicy grapes. Underneath, there is also a certain “darkness” brought forth by brambles, pepper and leather.
Palate: Although Project XX has a higher ABV than most bottles sporting the Glenfiddich stag, it is not harsh or boisterous at all. Instead, this high-class malt unfolds its qualities slowly and prudently. It is spicy, fruity, elegant, dark and complex. Give it the time it demands (and deserves) and you will be greatly rewarded!
Finish: Ahh, this lasts! The spiciness becomes more dominant towards the end, waving nearer a great finish full of pepper, clove, oak and blood orange.
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- The dram
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- The label
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- In the glass
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- Promo shot (taken from Glenfiddich.com)
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Region: Scotland (Speyside)
Aged: NAS (10-18 Years)
Alc. volume: 47%
Bottle size: 0.7 litres
Price range: ~48.00 Euro
More info: https://www.glenfiddich.com/ (Distillery)
BarleyMania | Whisky & Whiskey 
I heard on a podcast with the Canadian brand ambassador that they were going to add the Project XX as a permanent addition to the lineup.
Which means more Port Pipes, and thus I’m happy.
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Oh, really? I would very much like this as Project XX is a fantastic whisky. And one I can easily imagine re-buying when my bottle is finished.
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Yeah, check out http://whisky.buzz/thewhiskytopic/ In the latest podcast she says it’s continuing.
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I really enjoyed the XX when I tried it. It would be great if they do add it to the permanent line up! Definitely better than the IPA and while the Winter Storm is good it’s higher price tag would stop me ever buying a bottle.
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