The Glen Grant’s latest release takes its familiar fruit-led style into richer territory. Newly launched in Singapore, the Asia-exclusive Sherry Cask Finish 12-year-old adds a further stage of maturation to the Speyside distillery’s repertoire with first-fill Oloroso sherry casks doing the work.
Founded in 1840 in Rothes, Scotland, The Glen Grant has long paid particular attention to the shape of its spirit. Its tall, slender pot stills and water-cooling purifiers are central to its distinctive character; both were introduced by James “The Major” Grant, who inherited the distillery in 1872. That production approach remains part of the house’s identity today, giving the new release a recognisable starting point before the casks exert their influence.
For this expression, the whisky matures in bourbon barrels before moving into first-fill Oloroso sherry casks for secondary maturation. The distinction is in that final stretch: a sherry finish that builds on the distillery’s fragrant, fruity character, bringing sweetness and spice into sharper focus.
The distillery’s tasting notes describe ripe orchard fruits with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg on the nose, followed by warm spice and sweetness on the palate. Caramelised red apples and creamy spiced vanilla carry the finish. Taken together, the notes suggest a progression from fresh fruit towards something closer to the dessert table, with apple remaining the thread throughout.
The Glen Grant Sherry Cask Finish 12-year-old retails for $99 at selected retailers and premium whisky stockists.
