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  Photography by Cordero Studios

Collection Gift Guide: Smooth Guy in a Bottle

Robert Ross

December 1, 2005

The Classic Cask Glen Ord
Founded in 1838, the Scottish Highlands’ Glen Ord Distillery rests in the village of Muir of Ord (moor by the hill). Its Classic Cask releases are few and far between, and the 2005 bottling contains Scotch aged for nearly half a century. Glen Ord’s master blender has married the contents of three rare oak casks—each distilled in 1965—to produce a mere 361 bottles that are sure to delight the palates of serious Scotch lovers around the world.

The simple clear glass of the stout 750 ml bottle displays the Classic Cask’s intense gold color accented with bronze highlights. And from the first pour into a favorite snifter it becomes apparent that this is a single malt of substance. The well-rounded nose wafts sweet and floral, remarkably fresh for such a mature single batch. This 86-proof Scotch benefits from a few drops of water, but we will refrain from arguing the merits of an ice cube or two, an additive reviled by some, relished by others; we merely suggest: don’t ask, don’t tell.


(Click image to enlarge.)

However you take it, the full-bodied whisky has a rich, malty overtone, infused with almonds, raisins, and a whiff of smoke. As with any well-bred 40-year-old, this Scotch is smooth, with a long, luxurious finish. The perfect complement to an evening spent by the fireside with a favorite book and civilized musical fare, the $525 Classic Cask Glen Ord is available through fine spirits retailers.

Spirit Imports, 954.748.9009

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