Glenfiddich 15 Year Old

Distillery Background and History

Founded in 1886–87 by William Grant in Dufftown, Speyside, Glenfiddich remains a family-owned icon (William Grant & Sons). It pioneered global single malt Scotch marketing in the 1960s and remains the world’s best-selling single malt. The distillery uses Robbie Dhu spring water throughout production—from mashing to bottling—and maintains on-site cooperage and coppersmithing to handcraft its unique copper pot stills. 

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

Malt Master David C. Stewart MBE, appointed in 1974, introduced both the double maturation method and Glenfiddich’s proprietary Solera Vat system. This expression showcases his legacy: marrying spirit aged in ex-bourbon, sherry, and new oak casks in a never-emptied Solera vat to ensure consistent complexity over time. 

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

Made exclusively from 100% malted barley—sourced from local Scottish growers and Glenfiddich’s own estate. The spirit is distilled with Robbie Dhu spring water and fermented using traditional yeast to deliver the signature orchard fruit and honeyed Speyside profile. 

Distillation Process

Distilled in copper pot stills: 16 wash stills and 27 spirit stills. Production is small-batch and uses slow fermentation to develop fruit-forward esters. The spirit is unpeated and gently distilled to preserve balance and elegance. 

Maturation & Cask Information

Aged in ex‑bourbon, ex‑sherry, and new oak casks for 15 years. The matured whiskies are then married in a handcrafted oak Solera vat—which is always kept at least half full since 1998—creating a harmonised profile of layered flavor complexity. 

Tasting Notes

Nose: Sweet heather honey, vanilla fudge, rich dark fruits (raisins, cherries), and some apple/pear freshness. 

Palate: Silky and full-bodied with notes of marzipan, cinnamon, ginger, dried fruit, dark chocolate, caramel, and subtle oak spice. 

Finish: Rich and satisfying—lingering sweetness, mild bitterness, mixed spice, and malt oiliness. 

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairs well with fruit tarts, marzipan desserts, almond biscotti, mild cheeses (like Brie, Comté), honey-glazed nuts, and grilled fruit.

Serving Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Serve neat or with a few drops of spring water in a Glencairn or tulip glass at 15–18 °C. Light swirling helps release rich aromas—ice is not recommended to preserve its layered profile.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store upright in a cool, dark place. This mature aged whisky is stable once opened; bottle aging adds minimal new character. Best consumed within a few years of opening to retain aromatic integrity.

Grain Type & Mash Bill (if applicable)

Single malt Scotch whisky—100% malted barley, aged separately in bourbon, sherry, and new oak before Solera vat marriage.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

40% ABV (80 US proof)