Surrender to the sublime richness of the Highlands with The GlenDronach Ode to the Dark. This sumptuous, limited-edition single malt is a decadent celebration of the distillery's mastery over a single cask type: the legendary Pedro Ximénez sherry cask. This expression elevates richness to a sublime apex, with layers of flavor coming together to create a true work of indulgence. For the sherry bomb enthusiast, this is a dark and delicious masterpiece. Find this unique release through our preferred online retail partner, Nestor Liquor.
This exceptional whisky is matured exclusively in the finest Pedro Ximénez sherry casks from Spain. Known as the "King of Sherries," Pedro Ximénez is an intensely sweet dessert sherry made from sun-dried grapes. The casks seasoned with this nectar impart a deep, dark, and syrupy character to The GlenDronach's robust Highland spirit. Bottled at a potent 50.8% ABV, this is a full-bodied and unforgettable single malt.
Key Specifications:
Product: The GlenDronach Ode to the Dark Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Proof | ABV: 101.6 Proof | 50.8% ABV
Cask Maturation: Matured exclusively in Pedro Ximénez Sherry Casks
Distillery: The GlenDronach Distillery, Aberdeenshire, Scotland (Highlands)
Brand History: Masters of Sherry Cask Maturation
Founded in 1826 by James Allardice, The GlenDronach is one of Scotland's oldest and most revered distilleries. Nestled in the valley of Forgue in the East Highland hills, it has long been celebrated for its unwavering dedication to the art of sherry cask maturation. Under the guidance of Master Blender Dr. Rachel Barrie, The GlenDronach continues to produce exceptionally rich, complex, and full-bodied single malts. "Ode to the Dark" is a focused exploration of their craft, showcasing the singular, decadent influence of the Pedro Ximénez cask.
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Decadence
The exclusive maturation in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks creates a wonderfully rich and dessert-like tasting experience:
Nose: An intoxicating bouquet of molasses, fig jam, and juicy raisins, beautifully layered with notes of dark chocolate, brown sugar, and a hint of sweet Christmas cake.
Palate: A wonderfully rich, syrupy, and full-bodied palate. The initial taste is a wave of dark chocolate and treacle, which is perfectly complemented by flavors of dates, cherry cordial, and a complex, sweet baking spice.
Finish: The finish is exceptionally long, sweet, and warming, with the rich sherry notes and dark fruit character lingering in a truly decadent fashion.
Why 'Ode to the Dark' is a Must-Have:
A Pure PX Sherry Bomb: This is a rare opportunity to experience a single malt matured exclusively in Pedro Ximénez casks from a distillery renowned for its sherry expertise.
Ultimate Decadence: Perfectly captures the rich, sweet, and dessert-like qualities of a PX sherry finish, making it the perfect after-dinner dram.
A Collector's Gem: As a special, limited release with a unique maturation profile, this bottle is a highly sought-after addition for fans of The GlenDronach and "sherry bomb" whiskies.
Perfectly Proofed: At 50.8% ABV, it is likely non-chill filtered, offering a richer mouthfeel and a more robust flavor experience that carries the intense sweetness beautifully.
This is a whisky that celebrates the darkest, sweetest, and richest side of sherry cask maturation. Contact Nestor Liquor today to inquire about securing a bottle of The GlenDronach Ode to the Dark.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: How is this different from other GlenDronach releases like the 12 or 15 Year?
A: The GlenDronach's core range (12, 15, 18, 21 Year) is typically matured in a combination of Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry casks to achieve balance. "Ode to the Dark" is unique because it is matured exclusively in Pedro Ximénez casks, resulting in a much sweeter, richer, and more intensely dessert-like flavor profile.
Q: What is Pedro Ximénez (PX) sherry?
A: Pedro Ximénez is an intensely sweet dessert sherry made from grapes that have been dried in the sun to concentrate their sugars. Casks that have held PX sherry are highly prized for the rich notes of raisins, figs, molasses, and dark chocolate they impart to whisky.
Q: What is a "sherry bomb"?
A: "Sherry bomb" is a term used by whisky enthusiasts to describe a whisky that has a very strong, dominant, and often sweet flavor profile derived from maturation in sherry casks. An all-PX cask whisky like this is the quintessential example.
Q: Where can I purchase The GlenDronach Ode to the Dark?
A: This is a limited and sought-after release. We recommend contacting our preferred retail partner, Nestor Liquor, to inquire about their inventory and availability.
