Glenfiddich 21 Year Gran Reserva Review
In-Depth Review
Many argue that Glenfiddich is the most popular single malt in the world and as such has one of the most extensive lineups in the industry. With an output capacity of over 21 million liters a year, Glenfiddich makes a lot of whisky. With around 10 “core” expressions and countless limited releases, Glenfiddich holds a permanent space on almost every liquor store shelf in America. But what happens when you want to explore beyond the typical Glenfiddich 12, 14, 15, and 18 year expressions?
Enter the next level up: Glenfiddich 21 Gran Reserva. Part of Glenfiddich’s Grand Collection, this expression has been aged for 21 years before being finished in Caribbean rum casks. Bottled at only 40% ABV, and with the use of color and chill-filtration, I am a bit skeptical about how “grand” this whisky can be, but we should taste it first before passing judgement. The one thing that truly is awe-inspiring is the price – with an MSRP of around $240, this is a very expensive bottle. But let’s dive in and see if the first step in Glenfiddich’s Grand Collection is worth the high price of admission.
Age: 21 Years
ABV: 40%
Cask: Finished in Caribbean rum casks
MSRP: Around $240
Distillery Name: Glenfiddich Distillery
Review Date: 10/12/24
Color: Marigold
Nose: The nose is a refreshing array of tropical, fruity, notes of melon, orange slices, and pineapple mixed with fresh cut roses. Crisp and clean, there is a big, toasted coconut note that carries on throughout. As it settles in the glass, more lemon rind and cool French vanilla comes to the forefront. It’s a great nose – with a lot going on in the glass, even at only 40% ABV.
Palate: The palate starts off promising, with a continuation of the crisp and refreshing fruity character found in the nose. Big notes of apple slices, gingersnaps, mixed with more pineapple and a touch of milk chocolate. But the palate remains light, with a mouthfeel that leans towards watery and lacks the oomph you expect from whiskies in this price point. The 40% ABV really hurts it here, holding back what could be an incredible whisky. Regardless, it remains incredibly well balanced and easy drinking.
Finish: Short finish with candied ginger, toasted oak, and honeysuckle notes. Unfortunately, this whisky doesn’t stick around for long and leaves a lingering artificial vanilla note on the palate.
Final Thoughts: Glenfiddich’s Gran Reserva 21 Year isn’t designed to be the next great enthusiast pour. Instead, this whisky is positioned to appeal to people who are just starting to explore scotch, want something on the older side, and are looking for something beautiful for the shelf. And in all those respects, Glenfiddich 21 succeeds. The nose is by far the most rewarding part, while the palate and finish don’t provide enough depth for the price of admission. It’s certainly light and drinkable but lacks the oomph I was expecting from a whisky at this price point. This is still a good whisky – but feels closer to a $100 whisky than something $200+. Consider this the perfect gift for someone who want to explore a finished higher aged expression but isn’t looking to get smacked around by a high ABV. The nerdiest whisky lovers need not apply – Glenfiddich has other options for people like us.
