Glenfarclas – 105 Cask Strength (60%)

Glenfarclas 105 Cask Strength is a Speyside single malt bottled at 60% (105 British proof) with no added colour. The name refers to that British proof strength. George S. Grant released it in 1968 as the first commercial barrel-proof single malt, originally as a Christmas gift for friends. It is made by marrying casks typically between 8 and 10 years old, matured in ex-sherry and ex-bourbon barrels, with Oloroso sherry butts shaping much of the distillery character. The nose offers dark toffee, honey on toast, raisins and cranberries, with a hint of smoky coffee. The palate is dry and silken, moving to peppery oak, cinnamon and cloves. The finish is long and warming.