Let’s get straight to it. This whisky was supposedly distilled about 75 years ago. I got a sample at the Bad Homburg whisky festival, and the oversized Dutch man selling it claimed it was from the 1940s. Very plausible, although I couldn’t verify the date on the bottle or online. One can notice that it uses Imperial units for volume and alcohol proof. Will it have survived its long slumber in the bottle? And will I finally get a glimpse of that “old school” character whose demise in the modern era people lament?
Glen Grant 21yo (1940s)
Type: Scotch single malt
Alcohol: “70 proof” (40%?)
Price and availability: 💎Rare even on secondary market
🔗WhiskyBase (or similar)
Sample from Whisky Fair Bad Homburg (€20 for 2cl)
Experience ⚡
A rather delicate, sweetish, and slightly farmy nose: leather, hay, a little polished wood, cardamom buns, and maraschino cherry. The tastes and textures assert themselves – sweet, salty, and savoury – but the flavours almost evaporate from the tongue. I dare to add the smallest drop of water. Fresh fruit, in particular apricot, and heather now appear on the nose. The flavours on the palate are still mild, with fruit compote, sweet wheat bread, butterscotch, and a little malt essence; heather and barley sugar in the finish.
Thoughts 💡
When people speak of an “old school” sherry profile, I have no trouble imagining that this is what they have in mind. Less in your fruit cake and raisins, and more pensioner’s living room.
Worthwhile and enjoyable ✔️
Only once before have a tried whisky from the 40s. A very floral Glen Grant as an Orange Dram at the whisky Fringe. When will be the next time?
DuckDrams 
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