The Glenfiddich 21 Year Gran Reserva is a relatively new name for a rather old whisky. It was once known as the Havana Reserve, although this name was changed to appease Americans. The whisky making begins with acquiring rum casks from the Sancti Spiritus in Cuba, which are later used in the maturation proves. The exceptions are the whiskies bound for America, which are aged in Dominican casks to skirt the Cuban embargo and called ‘Caribbean rum finished’ rather than Cuban. This has a small but detectable effect on the product.
Although this whisky has an unconventional finish, there are definite signs that it is a Glennfiddich whisky. It has a dry edge that is unmistakable and just a hint of malty smoke. The rum taste is merely an undertone, playing second fiddle to the rich and robust flavors of this Speyside whisky. It has a reserve not commonly seen in this genre, but this only adds to the mystery. There was a time when finishing whisky in rum casks was somewhat normal, although it is now a rare and exotic choice.
As we stated before, the UK whisky is slightly different from the US one, although they share many aspects in common. This review is for the Gran Reserva available outside the USA, but it will for the most part cover the slightly different American version.
Nose: 20/25. Smooth and easy on your nose, the Glenfiddich 21 Year Gran Reserva is perfume-like and just a little reserved in the nose. There are definite undertones of both oaky wood and also freshly mown grass. The perfume mixed with the botanic elements yields a well-balanced and pleasant nose. You will want to give this nose a little time and thought, and your efforts will be justly rewarded.
Palate: 23/25. The palate is full of rich, sweet, dark tastes, including toffee, vanilla, almonds, sweet coffee and fudge. However, after a moment in the mouth tobacco and winter spices begin to emerge. A little citrus is noticeable throughout the entire experience. This range of flavors is a surprise after the completely different elements present in the nose. With the addition of water, the sweetness becomes even more prominent and even takes over the experience.
Finish: 21/25. The medium-length dry finish complements the sweetness of the whisky perfectly. You’ll detect a little alcohol bite. There is some nuttiness that adds depth and richness and also some rich tobacco flavors. The sweetness begins to return once again as the whisky flavor fades. While this is a complex finish, it nonetheless is not too thought-consuming. It is a smooth and easy ride.
Character: 20/25. The Glenfiddich 21 Year Gran Reserva is smooth and satisfying from beginning to finish. While the first impression is a little ‘shy’, the whisky comes out of its shell quickly. Although this whisky is aged in a rum cask, the rum is not dominant at all. Quite to the contrary, it seems to be almost an undertone in this well-rounded whisky.
Overall Rating for Glenfiddich 21 Year Gran Reserva Whisky: 84/100.
