Glenfiddich is a single malt distillery located in the Speyside region on Scotland. Owned by William Grant & Sons, it is one of the last remaining family-owned distilleries in Scotland. Glenfiddich is the world’s best-selling single malt whisky and the most awarded. Glenfiddich is Gaelic for “Valley of the Deer.” Which is why they have a stag as their logo. Glenfiddich has grown considerably since opening in 1886 and now boasts 32 spirit stills which produce 13,000,000 liters annually.
Aside from their age statement core range, Glenfiddich has presented another range of whiskies called “The Experimental Series”. One of the most popular expressions from this range is Glenfiddich Winter Storm. Winter Storm is 21-year-old Glenfiddich finished in Canadian Ice wine barrels. The malt master, Brian Kinsman, found inspiration on the icy vineyards of Peller Estates in Niagara, Canada. Ice wine is an intensely sweet dessert wine made from grapes harvested when temperatures drop to -10 degrees Celsius. This expression was so popular that they have released a second edition. Here’s my take!
Bottled at 43% ABV.
Nose: Sweet tropical fruit candies, wine notes
Palate: Sweet, rich, candied fruit, Turkish delight, more ice wine flavours
Finish: Clean, crisp, short
I’m normally not a big fan of Speyside whiskies in general however, I think that this expression is a winner! I feel the ice wine barrel finish compliments the fresh, crisp, clean 21-year-old Glenfiddich malt beautifully. This expression makes an excellent pairing with a small after dinner treat. Although this whisky is a little on the expensive side, it is easy to find in stores. There are rumors going around that there will not be a third edition. So, I recommend picking up a bottle!