Glenfiddich has unveiled the latest edition to its Experimental Series, The Orchard Experiment. The new whiskey is a collaboration with the Temperley family, founders and owners of The Somerset Cider Brandy Company.
The Glenfiddich Orchard Experiment is the first single malt Scotch finish in Somerset Pomona Spirit Casks and celebrated unexpected pairings. The whisky was first matured in American oak while held in Glenfiddich’s Experimental Warehouse. It was then finished for about four months in the Somerset Casks, which hold an apple spirit.
In the new whisky, “classic Glenfiddich notes are accentuated and elevated by the Somerset Pomona Spirit Casks to a sweet, rich effect,” noted Mark Thompson, Glenfiddich Ambassador to Scotland. “On first sip, fruit flavors transport you to an orchard on a warm summer’s day, then the liquid softens into sweet creamy toffee, caramelized apple and woody spice, leaving a sumptuous, decadent taste on the palate.”
The Temperley Farm in Somerset, UK, has pressed cider for more than 200 years. In 1989, the family secured the UK’s first ever full cider-distilling license. The company first pioneered their product in the ‘80s, said Matilda Temperley, adding “With this collaboration we’re back doing the same but challenging innovation even further. This is a really exciting marriage of Old English and Scottish craft distillates and we can’t wait for people to taste the incredible flavors of The Orchard Experiment.”
“Over the past few years we have had the opportunity to explore new sources for casks and I was intrigued by the possibility of using Somerset Pomona Spirit Casks to enhance and elevate the core Glenfiddich character of apples and pears,” explained Glenfiddich Malt Master Brian Kinsman. “Working with the Temperleys has been great fun as they share the same core values so common in family business.”
Glenfiddich’s Experimental Series was designed to push boundaries within the whisky category and beyond.
Bottled at 43% ABV, The Glenfiddich Orchard Experiment is priced at £43. For more information, head over to the brand’s official website.
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