Glenlivet Founders Reserve: A Classic Whisky with a Modern Twist

Have you heard of Glenlivet? If you’re a whisky enthusiast, you probably have. The distillery has been around since 1824 and is one of the most well-known in Scotland. One of their popular expressions is the Glenlivet Founders Reserve, a single malt Scotch whisky that pays tribute to the original copper pot stills of the distillery.

The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve was released in 2014 as a non-age-statement (NAS) entry-level whisky to sit side-by-side with the 12-year-old in established Glenlivet markets and replace the 12-year-old in emerging markets. It is a fruity and smooth whisky with notes of citrus, vanilla, and spice. The actual color of this whisky cannot be determined since it is artificially colored. The artificial color is golden.

The Founder’s Reserve is a 100% single malt Scotch whisky with a smooth and fruity taste, perfect for sipping or mixing. It has won several awards, including a gold medal at the International Wine and Spirit Competition in 2016. The whisky is matured in a combination of traditional oak and first-fill American oak casks, which give it its unique flavor profile. If you’re looking for a well-balanced and approachable whisky, the Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is definitely worth a try.

History and Origin

The Glenlivet Distillery

The Glenlivet Distillery is located in the Speyside region of Scotland and was founded in 1824 by George Smith. The distillery was located in a remote glen, which was known to be a favorite of illicit distillers. After purchasing a distilling license in the wake of the 1823 Excise Act, George Smith became the first licensed distiller in the area. His decision did not go down well with other distillers in the glen, who saw him as a traitor. However, Smith persevered, and his distillery went on to become one of the most successful in Scotland.

The Founders Reserve Launch

The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve was created by Master Distiller Alan Winchester to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the distillery’s opening. The Founder’s Reserve captures the distinct, smooth, fruity taste that George Smith first envisioned in 1824. It is a no-age-statement whisky, which means that it is a blend of different aged whiskies, with no specific age given. The whisky was launched in 2014 and went on to amass the highest sales volume of any new Scotch product launched in the last five years (IWSR, 2016).

The Founder’s Reserve is matured in a selection of traditional oak, American oak, and ex-sherry casks. This gives the whisky a complex flavor profile, with notes of citrus, vanilla, and toffee. The whisky is bottled at 40% ABV and is non-chill filtered, which means that it retains more of its natural flavor and aroma. Overall, the Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is a smooth and easy-drinking whisky that is perfect for both beginners and connoisseurs alike.

Production Process

Malt Whisky Making

The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is made using a traditional method called malt whisky making. This process starts with the selection of the finest malted barley, which is then ground into grist. The grist is mixed with hot water in a mash tun, creating a sugary liquid called wort. The wort is then transferred to large vessels called washbacks, where yeast is added to start the fermentation process. After a few days, the fermented liquid, known as wash, is ready for distillation.

The wash is then distilled twice in copper pot stills, which are heated by direct fire. The first distillation produces a low wine, which is then distilled a second time to produce a high wine. The high wine is then filled into oak casks, where it is left to mature for several years.

Cask Selection

The cask selection process is crucial to the flavor profile of The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve. The distillery uses a combination of first-fill American oak casks and traditional oak casks to create a balanced and fruity whisky. The first-fill American oak casks impart a creaminess and sweetness to the whisky, while the traditional oak casks add depth and complexity.

The casks are carefully selected by the Master Distiller, who ensures that only the highest quality casks are used. The whisky is then left to mature for at least 12 years, during which time it develops its unique flavor profile.

Overall, The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is a testament to the distillery’s commitment to quality and tradition. The malt whisky making process, combined with the careful cask selection, results in a smooth and fruity whisky that is enjoyed by whisky enthusiasts around the world.

Tasting Notes

If you are looking for a smooth and fruity single malt scotch whisky, then The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is an excellent choice. Here are some tasting notes to help you understand the aroma profile and flavor characteristics of this whisky.

Aroma Profile

The aroma of The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is a combination of honey, malt, dried fruit, toffee, and a touch of wood and nuts. You can also detect some sweet scents of candy and toffee. The nose is typically fruity, with sweet aromas of red apples and white peaches. The scent is not too overpowering, and it is well-balanced.

Flavor Characteristics

The flavor of The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is a combination of dried fruit, honey, malt, graham, spice, toffee, char, and some wood and candy sweetness. The taste is smooth and fruity, with a hint of sweetness and a mild spiciness. You can also detect some flavors of vanilla and cinnamon. The finish is medium-short, with a combination of honey, fruit, and char. The balance is okay, with medium body and light feel.

Overall, The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is an excellent choice for those who enjoy smooth and fruity single malt scotch whisky. It is a well-balanced whisky with a unique combination of flavors and aromas.

Serving Suggestions

If you’re planning to enjoy a glass of Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve, there are a few serving suggestions that you should keep in mind to get the most out of your experience. Here are some ideas to help you enjoy your dram:

Neat

One of the best ways to enjoy Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is to drink it neat. This means that you should serve it at room temperature without any additional mixers, water, or ice. This allows you to fully appreciate the complex flavors and aromas of the whisky.

When drinking Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve neat, it’s important to use a proper whisky glass. A tulip-shaped glass with a narrow mouth is ideal, as it will help to concentrate the aromas and flavors of the whisky. Hold the glass by the stem or base to prevent the heat of your hand from affecting the temperature of the whisky.

With Water or Ice

If you prefer your whisky a bit cooler, you can add a few drops of water or a single ice cube to your Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve. This can help to open up the flavors and aromas of the whisky and make it a bit more refreshing.

When adding water or ice to your whisky, be sure to use filtered water to avoid any unwanted flavors or aromas. You should also avoid using too much water or ice, as this can dilute the whisky and mask its flavors.

Cocktail Recommendations

While Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is delicious on its own, it can also be used to make a variety of delicious cocktails. Here are a few cocktail recommendations to try:

• The Glenlivet Sour: Combine 2 oz. Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve, 3/4 oz. lemon juice, and 1/2 oz. simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lemon twist.
• The Founder’s Old Fashioned: Muddle a sugar cube, a few dashes of bitters, and a splash of water in a rocks glass. Add ice and 2 oz. Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve. Stir gently and garnish with an orange twist.
• The Glenlivet Highball: Fill a highball glass with ice. Add 2 oz. Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve and top with soda water. Stir gently and garnish with a lemon twist.

Remember, the key to enjoying Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is to experiment and find the serving method that works best for you. Whether you prefer it neat, with water or ice, or in a cocktail, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this delicious whisky.

Awards and Recognition

The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve has received numerous awards and recognition since its release in 2014. Here are some of the most notable achievements:

• Starting off with a notable achievement, the Founder’s Reserve clinched a Gold Medal at the International Wine and Spirit Competition in 2015, standing out in the Scotch Single Malt: Speyside category. The judges hailed it as “a classic Glenlivet,” characterized by its delicate, fruity nose and smooth, creamy palate.
• Following this, in the same year, the Founder’s Reserve also secured a Silver Medal at the International Spirits Challenge, again in the Scotch Single Malt: Speyside category. This time, the accolade came with commendations for its “delicate, fruity nose and smooth, creamy palate,” enhanced by a hint of vanilla.
• In 2016, the Founder’s Reserve solidified its excellence by receiving the Best-in-Class award at the International Wine and Spirit Competition, reinforcing its status in the Scotch Single Malt: Speyside category. Judges praised it as “a beautifully balanced whisky,” highlighting its delicate nose and smooth, creamy palate.
• Moreover, in 2018, the Founder’s Reserve continued its streak of success by winning another Gold Medal at the International Wine and Spirit Competition. It was once again lauded for its “delicate, fruity nose and smooth, creamy palate,” this time with added praise for a hint of vanilla and a long, satisfying finish, underscoring its consistent quality and appeal.

Overall, the Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve has proven to be a highly regarded whisky in the industry, with its delicate, fruity nose and smooth, creamy palate being consistently praised by judges and critics alike.

Comparisons to Other Whiskies

Within The Glenlivet Range

When comparing Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve to other whiskies within the Glenlivet range, you will find that it offers a unique taste profile that stands out from the crowd. The Founder’s Reserve is a classic Speyside single malt, matured in a variety of oak casks, including first-fill American oak casks. This gives it a smooth and creamy texture, with notes of vanilla and toffee.

Compared to Glenlivet 12, which is also a Speyside single malt, the Founder’s Reserve offers a slightly more unique flavor profile without an age statement. Oak casks age Glenlivet 12 for 12 years, delivering a classic Speyside experience characterized by its fruity and floral notes.

Against Other Brands

When compared to other brands, Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is a great entry-level single malt Scotch that offers a smooth and approachable taste. It is often compared to Glenfiddich 12, which is another popular Speyside single malt. While both whiskies are similar in terms of being approachable and easy to drink, Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve offers a more complex and layered taste profile.

Glenlivet Founders Reserve often draws comparisons to Macallan Gold, with both whiskies maturing in a variety of oak casks. However, Macallan Gold distinguishes itself by offering a more intense and rich taste profile, featuring notes of dried fruit and spice. Glenlivet Founders Reserve, on the other hand, offers a smoother and creamier taste with notes of vanilla and toffee.

Overall, Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is a great choice for those who are new to the world of single malt Scotch. It offers a smooth and approachable taste that is perfect for sipping neat or mixing in cocktails. While it may not be as complex or intense as some other single malts, it is a great option for those who are looking for a quality whisky at an affordable price.

Consumer Reviews and Ratings

When it comes to the Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve, opinions are mixed. Some people love it, while others find it underwhelming. Here are some of the most common things people say about this scotch:

• Many people appreciate the affordable price point of the Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve, especially when compared to some of the more expensive Glenlivet offerings.
• Some people find the flavor profile of the Founder’s Reserve to be a bit lackluster. While it has some of the classic Glenlivet notes, such as apple and pear, it doesn’t have the complexity or depth of some of the other Glenlivet expressions.
• Despite the lack of complexity, others find the Founder’s Reserve to be a great everyday scotch. It’s easy to drink and doesn’t require a lot of thought or analysis.
• The Founder’s Reserve has received a rating of 96 out of 100 from Wine Enthusiast [1]. This high rating has helped to boost the popularity of the scotch.

Overall, the Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is a solid scotch that won’t break the bank. While it may not be the most complex or interesting scotch out there, it’s a good option for those who want a reliable and easy-to-drink scotch.

 

Purchasing Information

Availability

The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is widely available both online and in-store. You can find it at major retailers such as Total Wine, BevMo, and Liquor Barn. It is also available at local liquor stores and specialty shops. You can check the availability of Founder’s Reserve in your area by visiting the Glenlivet website and using their store locator tool, about halfway down their page. You can also find it at Caskers

 

Price Range

The price of Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve varies depending on the store and location. The average price range for a 750ml bottle is between $30 and $40. However, it is important to note that some retailers may offer it at a higher or lower price. It is always a good idea to shop around to find the best deal.

If you are looking for a smaller bottle, you can find 375ml bottles for around $20. If you prefer a larger bottle, 1.75L bottles are available for around $80. Some retailers may also offer discounts or promotions on Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve, so be sure to keep an eye out for those.

Overall, Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is an affordable option for those looking for a quality single malt scotch whisky. With its smooth and fruity taste, it is a great addition to any whisky collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What distinguishes Glenlivet Founders Reserve from the 12-year-old variety?

Glenlivet Founders Reserve is a no-age-statement whisky that was created to pay homage to the distillery’s founder, George Smith. The 12-year-old variety undergoes aging for at least 12 years. Whereas the Founder’s Reserve consists of a blend of whiskies matured in a diverse selection of casks. Including first-fill and refill American oak and ex-sherry oak casks. This results in a smooth, fruity flavor with notes of toffee, apples, and pears.

How does the taste of Glenlivet Founders Reserve compare to other single malts?

Glenlivet Founders Reserve has a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other single malts. It has a smooth, fruity taste with a hint of spice and a creamy, long finish. The flavor is well-balanced and not too overpowering. Which makes it a great choice for both whisky enthusiasts and those new to the world of single malts.

What is the price range for a bottle of Glenlivet Founders Reserve?

The price of Glenlivet Founders Reserve varies depending on where you purchase it from and the size of the bottle. On average, a 750ml bottle of Glenlivet Founders Reserve costs around $45 to $50.

Can you explain the significance of the 1824 label on Glenlivet Founders Reserve?

The 1824 label on Glenlivet Founders Reserve is a reference to the year that George Smith founded the Glenlivet distillery. It is a nod to the rich history and heritage of the distillery. And the dedication to quality that has been passed down through generations of master distillers.

What type of casks are used in the aging process of Glenlivet Founders Reserve?

Glenlivet Founders Reserve is aged in a combination of first-fill and refill American oak and ex-sherry oak casks. The use of these casks gives the whisky its unique flavor profile, with notes of toffee, apples, and pears.

How does Glenlivet Founders Reserve rate among whiskey enthusiasts?

Glenlivet Founders Reserve is highly regarded among whisky enthusiasts. It has won several awards, including a gold medal at the International Wine & Spirits Competition in 2015. If you are looking for a high-quality single malt whisky. This is it; its smooth, fruity flavor and creamy finish make it an excellent choice.