Glenfiddich Grande Couronne 26 Year (750Ml)

Glenfiddich Grande Couronne is a 26-year-old single malt from the Glenfiddich distillery in Dufftown, in the heart of Speyside. It belongs to the brand's Grand Series. That range also holds the 21-year-old Gran Reserva and the 23-year-old Grand Cru. Grande Couronne is the oldest of the three.

The whisky spends most of its life in American and European oak casks. It then moves into rare French Cognac casks for up to two more years. That long finish is where much of its richness comes from. Glenfiddich bottles it at 43.8% ABV.

The nose is bright and lively. Glenfiddich compares it to a French bakery, with toasty oak, tarte tatin and buttery choux pastry. On the palate it turns deep and velvety. You get café crème, soft brown sugar and a light touch of spice. The sweet oak finish lasts a very long time.

The French name points to a crown, a fitting nod for a whisky made for big moments. It arrived in 2021 as a limited release. The bottle and box are dressed for gifting. It makes a natural choice for a milestone birthday, a wedding or a retirement toast.

Pour it neat in a tulip glass and let it rest for a few minutes. Add a drop of water only if you want to open it further. It sits nicely next to dark chocolate or a small espresso. Serious whisky lovers and collectors alike will want one on the shelf.