Time for another dram!
Glen Garioch Virgin Oak No2
A well-rounded, hearty Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky with a lot to offer.
A bit about!
Aged in Virgin North American White Oak Casks, Glen Garioch Virgin Oak No. 2 has 48% ABV and is Non-Chill Filtered (all their whiskies are, to be honest).
This particular one is a No Age Statement and has won Gold and Silver at International Spirits Challenges.
The initial Virgin Oak Batch was launched in 2013, with batch no 2 being released in 2019.
Glen Garioch Virgin Oak No2
Time to try it!
Slight vanilla, a lot of caramel and apricots on the nose.
I can clearly taste the oak on the palate, it's on the sweet side with honey, peach and apricot notes, fruity and slightly spicy.
It has a medium-long finish, a bit dry, with even more spicy notes, a hint of cinnamon and a bit of vanilla to tone down the pepperiness.
Pros and cons
Compared to the Founder's Reserve, it's way more rounded and feels less harsh although the ABV is exactly the same.
I enjoyed it neat, but, as with the Founder's Reserve, a drop of water or an ice cube seemed to open up more of the aromas.
In Conclusion
Priced at around £70 on most UK websites, although not easy to find, I think it's a good dram to try. It has a lot of flavor to offer, it's highly enjoyable and, as, advertised on their website, it is indeed a hearty Highland Malt.
I wouldn't necessarily recommend as an entry-level whisky as it can be a bit overwhelming, but, I might be wrong. If you have ever sampled it, please let me know what you think of it, in the comments below.
As always, please drink responsibly.
I hope life is treating you well.
Take care.