Samaroli’s 1996 Speyside Glentauchers Single Malt Scotch Whisky: A Masterpiece of Complex Flavors and Aged Perfection

This Samaroli Scotch Whiskey Single Malt Speyside Glentauchers 1996 is a tiny masterpiece, a dense, marine, and soft distillate energized by a decisive alcoholic spicy vein. 21 years of aging are not a few and have condensed the flavors of the malt, making it balsamic, intense, and straight where a play of tension between herbaceous and nutty defines the aromatic figure.

How is it produced

The malt is germinated before being smoked without the use of peat. In 1996, a double distillation was performed, followed by aging in ex-sherry casks and bottling in 2014.

Organoleptic characteristics

The bouquet is large, opulent, rich, and driven by flowers, beeswax, honey, and peaches in syrup. The iodized notes border on alpine herbs, mint, and eucalyptus and intertwine with chocolate and cola. Candied citrus fruits sink into vegan custard with caramelized banana cooked on the BBQ. Verbena and dried meat. Light and shadow, joy and remorse, everything is played on the fine line of contrast, without ever encroaching on arrogance.

On the palate, it is dry like the clang of a katana under the moon, vibrant, punchy, and nutty, with oxidized tones that throw the malt off a precipice to make it fly. The structure is large and rocky, and the iodine gives it consistency. The alcohol is soft, it barely burns the tongue, but it is a caress in the throat.

Overall, it is an extraordinary whisky not for finesse or precision, but for charisma and personality. It is unique, not monstrous in terms of depth, but has great stroke precision.

Price

350 euros: adequate price, also in a future key for an investment. Four or five years ago it cost less than 300 euros.

Food pairings

Chocolate, salmon terrine, brisket and pulled pork, chocolate salami, apple pie, tiramisu, creme brùlée.