About this whisky

The Glenlivet sits high in the hills of Speyside, where George Smith took out one of the first legal licences in the glen in 1824. Eighteen years of maturation in a mix of American and European oak casks give this expression a depth and complexity that the younger whiskies only hint at, while keeping the distillery's elegant, fruity heart. It is bottled at 43%, a touch higher than its younger siblings, for extra richness and texture.

Expect a fragrant, complex nose with sweet oak, then a silky palate built on steady malt with a light passion-fruit sweetness and a lively burst of ginger and white pepper, ending dry and oaky. This is a refined bottle for marking a milestone, such as a wedding gift, a significant birthday or a senior colleague's farewell, and a fine companion to a long evening of conversation. Enjoy it neat, with a few drops of water if you like.

Key facts

• Matured for at least 18 years in American and European oak casks
• Bottled at 43% ABV, higher than the 12 and 15 Year Old
• From the distillery George Smith licensed in the glen of the Livet in 1824
• Speyside single malt

Tasting notes

Nose:

fragrant, elegant and complex, with sweet oak

Palate:

silky malt, light passion-fruit sweetness, then ginger and white pepper

Finish:

dry, with oak

Serve

Neat, with a few drops of water if preferred.

Food pairing

Pair with mutton rezala or roast duck, or with dark chocolate and candied ginger.