The Glenlivet The Licensed Dram 12 Year Old Scotch Whisky 700ml

A spiritual successor to the fantastic Illicit Still, the Licensed Dram celebrates a period slightly later in the long history of the Glenlivet, when George Smith was granted royal assent to the production of whisky. So synonymous with the style that malt whisky was sometimes generically known as "Glenlivet" for some time!

First-fill ex-Bourbon and ex-sherry casks and a higher-than-usual proof come together for a dram that emphasises the rounded, slightly fruity baking-spice signature taste of the Glenlivet. Like the Illicit Still before it, this one's also a limited edition.

Nose:
There's lots of fudge, some honey and touches of hazelnut. That's followed by strawberry jam and port-stewed pears, but also whiffs of almonds and liquorice. Finally a tinge of orange zest and peaches.

Taste:
A creamy mouthfeel and a sweet, honeyed arrival. First impression is malty, somewhat dry and nutty, and a bit of a spicy punch. Think white pepper, ginger and cloves. Also some herbal notes, but then finally apple peel and melon.