Wow, I was quite negatively surprised. 10 years, 12 years and Maker's Cut from the new Soleo Collection I found terrific. The more excited I was on the 18 years, which is still very ambitious priced (90-120 €). The result is disappointing on the whole. Some cinnamon, some sherry, some honey, a little musty / sulfur. Pretty simple, all pretty boring, all pretty one-dimensional and without any impact. He looks much younger than the age would suggest. My recommendation: Better to reach 12 years. It is (for whatever reason) much more voluminous and complex. And that costs more than half less.

Baked Pears

In September 2018 Glenrothes announced she would be replacing the Vintage releases with a brand new series with age statements, listening to the name Soleo Collection. This was the first, and influencial, decision taken after Berry Brothers sold the brand back to former owner Edrington. Six new malts have been released: 10 Year Old, 12 Year Old, Whisky Maker’s Cut, 18 Year Old and 25 Year Old. The 40 Year Old should follow soon. Soleo refers to the Andalusian sun, where the sherry casks used by Glenrothes to mature their malt comes from.

The nose starts a little weak, in all honesty. Some banana, apricots, (a lot of) vanilla, caramel, barley sugar and some baked pears. Nice notes of milk chocolate. Smells younger than its age.

Soft and light bodied, a tad oily. Again very sweet on pears and oranges. Honey and caramel. Becomes a bit spicy thanks to ginger, white pepper and some espresso.

The finish is just shy of long, docile and pleasant. Some nuts at the death.

Card players’ whisky, but I have to say I’m not very impressed. Especially considering this is 18 years old. Not complex at all and quite regular. Around 100 to 120 EUR for a bottle.