Glenlossie 2013

The whisky from this elusive Speyside distillery is always a rarity, as it has almost never been released in official bottlings. The influence of a 2-years finish in first fill Oloroso butts is evident in the winey, slightly sour note at the nose… although the fat distillery style still shines through, adding a curiously buttery touch. The palate is dominated by a nutty note, especially almonds: at times it really tastes like marzipan cookies! It’s slightly raisiny, with dried apricots too. There’s a contrast between the overall austerity of the style, the tannins from the oak, and the honeyed background. The tannic and austere side wins in the end, with a finale that’s rather oaky, a bit herbal, and again with a hint of almondy bitterness.