Speyside Finest 1975

Speyside Finest 1975, 40 YO, 46,9 %

Today I will review another very recent release from the new Belgian independent bottler Beacon Spirits. The Speyside Finest 1975 has been matured in an undisclosed cask, and this is a partial cask release at 54 bottles.

From time to time you will find independent bottlings of Glenfarclas under the name "Probably Speyside's Finest" or just "Speyside's Finest". I have no proof that this is the case for this whisky, but the name is very similar, and the whisky could very well pass for an old Glenfarclas to me.

The Speyside Finest 1975 sold at € 295, but is already sold out I am afraid.

Nose: Deep, rich and enigmatic. I can certainly tell you that I like the nose on this dram, but I am somewhat at a loss when it comes to describing it. It is fruity, yes. And we're talking tropical fruits, not the kind grown in Norway.

Taste: Fresh and rich mouthfeel. It does not come across as four decades old on the initial attack. It is very fresh, fruity and rich. Hints of spices, caramel and fresh herbs.

Finish: Long finish. The age does show here, for sure. It is rock solid and balanced like an ancient Egyptian pyramid. The rich fruitiness (home made apple jello) is joined by delicate oakiness, ginger and a touch of dried herbs.

Comments: A sublime old whisky. Not sure it is a Glenfarclas, but it could very well be.

Score (89/100)

Sláinte! - Thomas