It’s been a little while since we had a Scotch versus Scotch so today we’re going pit a couple of beginner friendly twelve year olds against each other and see who comes out on top.
We’ve got the PX & Oloroso sherry cask finished Glendronach 12 that wears a burnt orange hue next to the light yellow gold of the ex-bourbon cask anCnoc 12. Judging by the color alone, this will be a battle between Quercus Alba (American white oak) and Quercus Robur (European oak). One of the only indicators we can get from color is the type of wood that may have been used to age the distillate.
The Glendronach 12 brings sherry sweetness to your nose robed in a bit of spice and orange preserve vice the anCnoc 12 which reeks of lemon citrus and grassy notes. Side by side, they’re both exquisite but the nod goes to the Glendronach for having the richer nose. The fresh cut flowers in the anCnoc are also very enjoyable though.
anCnoc 12 is easy on the palate with a medium viscosity and fresh light herbal notes over oak spices and citrus peel notes. I has a smooth spice finish that lingers lightly. The Glendronach is lighter on the tongue than the anCnoc; almost like water versus oil. It’s full of melted chocolate ganache drizzled in vanilla with a bit of spice over over-ripened soft fruits. The Glendronach’s finish is spicy but enjoyable and again, richer than the anCnoc.
[anCnoc is made at Knockdhu but to not be confused with Knockando, they changed the name to anCnoc]
These two 12 year olds are so different that I can’t say one is better than the other. It’s really much more of a “what are you in the mood for” type battle. Maybe you’ve got a favorite? Go ahead and let me know which you prefer!
scotchnsniff.com 