Glenrothes – 12 Years Soleo Collection

A 12 year old single malt from the Glenrothes distillery in Speyside, bottled as part of the Soleo Collection. The series takes its name from the sun-drying of grapes in Jerez for sherry production, and sherry character sits at the centre of this bottling. Glenrothes chose to leave vintage dates off the label here, giving ages for most of the range instead. The nose brings gingerbread, stewed apple and earthy vanilla, followed by soft tropical fruit and a touch of sherry. On the palate come creamy hazelnut, dried fruit and cinnamon, with chocolate, old leather, dried herbs, tobacco and honeyed melon. The finish is long and sweet, with baking spice and more stewed fruit.