Glenglassaugh Revival Review

Taking on the world after leaving red wine and bourbon casks, this single malt whisky from the Highlands in Scotland takes its native coastal character on the road, bringing with it a blend of wine, malt and bite, without scarifying mass range of flavours. From the very tip, a smoky, woody scent fills the mouth while a dense sensation of flavours penetrate the tongue. It pricks at the throat like a high ABV usually does, however this burn leaves as quickly as it starts (as a 46% should). While Glenglassaugh Revival does feel young, it does what it does brilliantly, taping into the 'complexity' realm while toeing lightly.

After my first sip, I had to simmer things down with an ice cube to discover the full range of red wine and hidden hints within, however the overwhelming rapid fire of variety makes this difficult. While I would normally aim for simplify of perfection within my collection, Glenglassaugh Revival surprising works with this lightning approach. It throws roasted malt notes, ginger, and nuts at you while retaining a sweet toffee and honey aroma. With every sip, a new flavour emerges, and there is a place where as the ice melts, hints of cinnamon and different spices show up. While I normally wouldn't recommend icing down a great whisky, Glenglassaugh Revival might just be what ice in whisky was invent for as it doesn't impend but rather enables the journey to travel smoothly.

A great value bottle sitting in at around the $80-$90, Glenglassaugh Revival is a flavour filled ride to take with your whisky loving mates. It can be a slow lukewarm gem, gliding through smoky and oaky alley ways, or a sweet cool ride as it different spices emerge as it mellows out. While not a top shelf or special occasion drop of any means, Glenglassaugh Revival is far from a rushed bad whisky. It lands the balance of complexity of flavours well and allows its audience to take from it what they will.

Grade: B-