About this whisky

Glenfiddich has been distilled in Dufftown, in the heart of Speyside, since William Grant and his family built the distillery by hand in 1887, and it is still owned by the family today. The 15 Year Old is their most inventive core whisky. In 1998 Malt Master David Stewart borrowed the solera system from the sherry bodegas of Spain, marrying whisky from bourbon, sherry and new oak casks in a large vat that is never emptied, only topped up, so every batch carries a little of the one before.

The result is rich and rounded: heather honey, vanilla fudge and dark fruit on the nose, then sherried oak, marzipan, cinnamon and ginger across a silky palate, ending long and sweet. It is a confident step up from the 12 Year Old and an easy favourite at a dinner party, familiar enough for newer malt drinkers and layered enough for the enthusiast. A reliable corporate or festive gift with a name everyone recognises.

Key facts

• Matured in bourbon, new oak and sherry casks
• Married in Glenfiddich's Solera Vat, a system introduced in 1998 by Malt Master David Stewart
• The Solera Vat is never emptied; it is kept at least half full so each batch carries some of the last
• Distillery built by William Grant and his family in Dufftown in 1887

Tasting notes

Nose:

heather honey, vanilla fudge and rich dark fruit

Palate:

sherried oak, marzipan, cinnamon and ginger, full and silky

Finish:

rich, with lingering sweetness

Serve

Neat or with a drop of water; also good over a single large ice cube.

Food pairing

Pair with mutton rezala or a cheese board with aged gouda and dried figs.