The latest addition to the Speyside brand’s Grand Series is its first to be finished in Bordeaux red wine casks, Glenfiddich Grand Château
Many of whisky’s biggest names are looking to the wine world when it comes to their next release. Last month, Glenmorangie unveiled its Pursuit of Passion Wine Cask Collection featuring wines finished in barrels from France and Italy; Aberfeldy previously released both 15-year-old and 18-year-old single malts aged in French red wine casks; and Tomatin has launched its own trio of whiskies finished in Italian red wine casks. Now, Glenfiddich is stepping into the world of red wine cask finishes with the launch of Grand Château, a 31-year-old single malt Scotch and the first release by the distillery to be finished in Bordeaux red wine casks.
Glenfiddich Grand Château first matured in American oak casks for 22 years, before being finished for an additional nine years in Bordeaux red wine casks from the French wine-growing region. The whisky joins the Speyside distillery’s Grand Series, which has previously included Gran Cortes XXII (finished in sherry casks), Grande Couronne (finished in Cognac casks), and Grand Yozakura (finished in Japanese Awamori casks). The latest addition to the Grand Series weaves together the stories of the River Fiddich in Speyside and the ports of Bordeaux.
“Bordeaux red wine casks are incredibly versatile sources of flavor and widely recognized for their outstanding quality, providing the perfect opportunity for experimentation to develop a profound spirit,” said Brian Kinsman, Glenfiddich Malt Master. “Nine years spent cocooned in Bordeaux red wine casks results in an exceptionally vibrant liquid. Although wine is becoming an increasingly popular choice for maturation within the single malt category, it remains relatively rare to see whiskies finished in a Bordeaux red wine cask, making this an incredibly intriguing and highly collectible release.”
On the nose, it offers notes of warm vanilla that lead to fruity, floral aromas of ripe cassis berries, complemented by piquant nutty aromas. The palate is rich and indulgent, featuring flavors of slowly caramelized cherries and apples that intertwine with warming spice and the subtle presence of toasted oak. The long and lingering finish is filled with depth and character.
To celebrate the union of these two cultures, Glenfiddich partnered with French artist André Saraiva to create two limited-edition packages for Grand Château. The first design features a whimsical and vibrant watercolor print on the inside of the Grand Château box. The second design will see a smaller release with only 24 arriving in the U.S. Classified as “The Artist Edition,” it features the traditional Toile de Jouy print with Saraiva’s signature motifs and style on the front of the box.
“Glenfiddich Grand Château is a stunning addition to our Grand Series, as the Bordeaux casks intensify the liquid’s classic character with notes of deep oak and vanilla,” said Lorne Cousin, U.S. National Ambassador for Glenfiddich. “This new expression further emphasizes our dedication to pushing the boundaries to create highly dynamic and unique spirits, while also bringing the rich history of Speyside and Bordeaux together in an unusual way.”
Grand Château is the second limited edition release from the Grand Series collection, joining last year’s Grand Yozakura.
Glenfiddich Grand Château will be available for a limited time at luxury whisky retail outlets and premium establishments in the U.S. for a MSRP of $2,100. For more information, head over to the brand’s official website.