How to Drink Glenfiddich 14 Year Old Bourbon Barrel Reserve

Last Updated on: 26th April 2024, 05:30 pm

Discover the best way of drinking Glenfiddich 14: Ideas for tasting, pairing, and enjoying this whisky aged in Bourbon barrels.

Written by: J Highland

Key Takeaways

• Glenfiddich 14 recommended enjoying it neat, with an option to add water to enhance sweetness, according to Scotch expert Neil Coleman.
• Glencairn glass is suggested for aroma, with a whisky rocks glass as an alternative.
• The flavor profile includes caramel, oak, and warm bourbon undertones.
• Not ideal for cocktails, better enjoyed on its own.
• Pairs well with caramel pudding, grilled meats, cheese, and spiced nuts.
• Store the bottle upright, away from sunlight, and in a cool, dark place.
• Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Best Way to Drink Glenfiddich 14

“Glenfiddich 14 is ideally enjoyed neat, with just a sprinkle of water to accentuate its sweetness.”, suggests whisky expert, Neil Coleman.

This whisky with its unique aging in bourbon barrels, delivers a singular Scotch experience.

The harmonization of classic Scotch characteristics with the warmth of bourbon gives it an inimitable flavor profile.

While it’s different from its older counterparts, this Scotch shines with its bourbon-infused charm.

Smooth and devoid of overbearing alcoholic tones, it’s my go-to for a contemporary, enjoyable sip.

Related: Top Glenfiddich Selections

Adding Water

For centuries, the Scots have traditionally added water to their whisky.

This method fractures the molecules, unveiling hidden tasting notes while tempering the alcoholic undertones.

However, this ritual is more art than science, with no one-size-fits-all approach.

Begin with a couple of drops, savor the flavor, and continue adding one drop at a time until you discover the taste that resonates with your palate.

Adding Ice

If you have a preference for a chilled dram, large ice cubes or whiskey stones are recommended to maintain the whisky’s rich taste without excessive dilution.

Keep in mind that the Glenfiddich 14 is bottled at just 86 proof (43% ABV), so too much dilution tends to kill the flavor.

Glassware Selection

A Glencairn glass emphasizes Glenfiddich 14’s unique aromatic blend, but a conventional whisky rocks glass works splendidly as well.

Tasting Notes

The Glencairn glass, with its distinct tulip shape, is designed to concentrate the aromas of whisky, making it particularly effective in highlighting Glenfiddich 14’s aromatic profile.

This glass funnels the scents to the nose, allowing drinkers to delve deep into the whisky’s multifaceted aromatics.

On the other hand, the traditional whisky rocks glass, with its broader base and opening, offers a more relaxed sipping experience and a wider surface area for the spirit to breathe, which some may prefer.

Both options cater to different preferences, ensuring that Glenfiddich 14 can be fully appreciated in multiple ways.

Cocktails

Glenfiddich 14 is not a whisky I recommend to make cocktails as it lacks the bold flavors that characterize the best whiskies for mixing.

I recommend opting for a cheap bourbon to make cocktails as they provide a more cost-effective solution.

Food Pairings

Being a bridge between Scotch and bourbon realms, Glenfiddich 14 pairs beautifully with both traditional and innovative dishes.

• Caramel Pudding: The dessert’s sweetness complements the bourbon notes in the whisky.
• Grilled Meats: The charred flavors from grilling accentuate the oakiness of the Scotch.
• Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses, especially those with a slight sweetness or nuttiness, harmonize well with Glenfiddich 14.
• Spiced Nuts: The warm spices play off the bourbon undertones, enhancing the overall experience.

Storing the Bottle

Alcoholic beverages have an indefinite lifespan as long as you adhere to these simple suggestions:

• Store in an upright position.
• Keep away from direct sunlight.
• Place in cool, dark locations.
• Once down to the last quarter, consume promptly to retain its distinct notes.

A Peek into Glenfiddich 14 Bourbon Barrel Reserve

• First aged in traditional bourbon casks but finished in new, heavily charred American Oak barrels.
• These barrels were produced in Louisville, KY, by Kelvin Cooperage, regarded as the best barrel maker.
• Nestled in Dufftown, Scotland, Glenfiddich continues its legacy of excellence, initiated in 1887 by William Grant.