Cardhu Gold Reserve review and tasting notes of a soft and spiced whisky from Speyside

Cardhu Gold Reserve is a Single Malt Whisky born in the Speyside, a region famous for its soft and herbaceous whiskeys.

However, this Cardhu Gold Reserve is slightly different than the classic production line and boasts a notable roundness and aromatic sweetness.

All thanks to the roasted American barrels selected one by one as they are keen to let us know on the bottle label.

Let’s be honest: it is a discreet whisky, well made, without smudges, but too heavy with mellifluous, vanilla and sugary hints.

Cardhu Gold Reserve bouquet

Bottle of Speyside Scotch whisky, Cardhu Gold Reserve review
The fruity base is quite fresh and boasts aromas of apples, pears, even traces of ginger and orange peel to lighten, but is dominated by spices and pepper and toasted notes.

But be careful, you will not find even the slightest hint of peat. Herbs, flowers, toffee and caramel at will, but the watchword is softness. We do not want to say that he is a pimp, but we are close to it.

As soon as you uncork it and smell it looks almost like an amaretto, then it opens and seduces with wide and sumptuous notes, almost a kaleidoscope, very rich, however, it is not whisky with a rigorous profile.

What does Cardhu Gold Reserve taste like?

In the mouth, it is equally generous, full, but with good character and a peppery flavor that borders on bitter herbs.

Almond finish, persistent the right without overdoing it, which leads to a mixture of walnuts and honey.

He is not tough, he does not want to fight or sing the praises of the Scottish sea, on the contrary, it is a soft whisky for those who love soft spirits.

Cardhu Gold Reserve price

40 euros. The substance is there, but maybe try it before buying it, given its very particular nature. If you love peaty and stormy whiskeys forget it.

What dishes to pair with Cardhu Gold Reserve?

Rabbit terrine, chocolate salami, blueberry cheesecake, chocolate truffles.