Glen Grant 1962 (Gordon and MacPhail) Review

ABV: 40%
Price: £847.52

When you encounter a whisky as venerable as the Glen Grant 1962 bottled by Gordon and MacPhail, you're not just sipping a dram; you're delving into a liquid history book. This is a spirit that has seen decades pass by, quietly maturing in its cask, waiting for the perfect moment to be enjoyed.

First Impressions

The presentation of this whisky suggests a classic and refined experience. The bottle and labeling reflect the heritage and the long journey this particular whisky has made from cask to glass.

Flavor and Aroma

Upon first nosing, you're greeted with a bouquet of aromas that speak of its age. There's a rich fruitiness, reminiscent of orchard fruits like ripe apples and pears, layered with a hint of nuttiness and the deep, sweet scent of toffee. The age of the whisky has allowed these flavors to meld and mature into a complex profile that's both inviting and intriguing.

Taking the first sip, the flavor unfolds gracefully on the palate. The fruitiness from the nose is present, along with a subtle oakiness that whispers tales of its long rest in wooden casks. There's a lightness to it, which is characteristic of the Glen Grant distillery, but with a depth that only time can bestow upon a whisky. It's smooth, with a gentle warmth that doesn't overpower but rather complements the dance of flavors.

Value for Money

At a price point of £847.52, this is certainly a whisky that falls into the category of a luxury purchase. It's not an everyday dram but rather a special occasion whisky. When considering its age and uniqueness, it can be seen as a worthwhile investment for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the historical significance and rarity of such an old bottle.

Comparable Whiskies

In the realm of aged whiskies, you might draw comparisons to offerings like The Glenlivet 50 Year Old or a Macallan 1962. These are also prestigious bottles with hefty price tags, revered for their age and the craftsmanship that goes into their production.

The Brand and Its Heritage

Glen Grant is a name that carries weight in the whisky world. Founded in 1840, this Speyside distillery has a reputation for producing whiskies with a light, floral character, and the Gordon and MacPhail bottling of the 1962 vintage is a testament to their expertise. It's a collaboration between distillery and bottler that showcases the skill of both parties.

Conclusion

The Glen Grant 1962 (Gordon and MacPhail) is a remarkable time capsule that offers more than just a drink—it's a journey through the past, a taste of history. It's a whisky that commands respect and contemplation with each sip, and it's a privilege to experience a spirit that has been so carefully crafted and preserved.

Rating: 4.5/5

Summary: The Glen Grant 1962 is an extraordinary whisky, offering complexity and a rare glimpse into the past. Its price reflects its exclusivity and age, making it a splurge for most but potentially a worthy addition for the serious collector or enthusiast. Its smooth, rich flavors and the story it tells with each drop make it a near-perfect dram, falling just shy of perfection only because of its accessibility to the average whisky lover.