Description

GlenDronach Ode To The Valley Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Volume: 700ml           ABV: 46%           Age: No Age Statement           Country: Scotland

The GlenDronach “Ode to the Valley” is a notable Highland single malt Scotch whisky that marks the first release in the distillery’s “Master’s Anthology” series. This collection is a tribute to The GlenDronach’s mastery of sherry cask maturation, with each expression highlighting a different aspect of its style. This whisky is matured in a unique combination of ruby port casks from Portugal’s Douro Valley and the distillery’s signature sherry casks. This blend of cask types is the central element of its flavour profile, specifically designed to create a “fruit-forward” expression that pays homage to the local landscape. Bottled at 46.2% alc/vol and in line with The GlenDronach’s philosophy, this whisky is non-chill filtered and has its natural colour, ensuring the full spectrum of flavours and aromas is preserved.

Our Tasting Notes

The “Ode to the Valley” is named to reflect the landscape of the distillery, and its flavours are an ode to the “abundance of ripe fruit” found there.

Nose: The aroma is rich and inviting, with notes of late summer berries, chocolate de leche (caramelised milk chocolate), and sweet demerara sugar. You can also expect hints of apricot glaze, butterscotch, and warm baking spices.

Palate: The palate is full bodied and fruity. Expect a delightful mix of blackberry and roasted apple crumble, with a distinct presence of freshly baked gingerbread and sweet damson plum. The influence of the port casks brings a vibrant, jammy quality, while the sherry casks provide a deep, nutty richness. The whisky has velvety or oily mouthfeel.

Finish: The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering flavours of black cherry cake, liquorice, and acacia honey. It’s a warm and complex finish that perfectly balances sweetness and spice.

Overall: The GlenDronach “Ode to the Valley” is an excellent example of how the distillery is exploring and expanding its sherry forward identity. The addition of port casks creates a beautifully balanced and fruit driven whisky that is both complex and approachable. It’s a great option for those who enjoy sherried whiskies but are looking for a brighter, more vibrant expression with a distinct berry and stone fruit character.

Situated in the Forgue valley, near Huntly, Aberdeenshire, in the Highland region of Scotland. This location is nestled among rolling hills, far from the main tourist routes. The GlenDronach Distillery was founded in 1826 by James Allardice (after whom the 18 Year Old is named). It has a long and somewhat turbulent history, experiencing periods of closure and ownership changes. Notably, for much of the 20th century, it was owned by William Teacher & Sons (famous for Teacher’s Highland Cream blended Scotch), with much of its spirit destined for blends. A major turning point came in 2008 when it was acquired by an independent consortium led by Billy Walker, who championed its single malt bottlings and its commitment to sherry maturation. It was subsequently acquired by Brown-Forman (makers of Jack Daniel’s) in 2016.