GlenDronach 21 Years Old Parliament Scotch Whisky

GlenDronach 21-Year-Old "Parliament" is a richly sherried Highland single malt—bold and luxurious from prolonged aging in Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez casks. Expect deep dried fruit, dark chocolate, warm spice, and a long, elegant finish with complex rancio notes at a robust 48% ABV.

🏆 In a Nutshell

• ABV & Age: 48% ABV, aged 21 years entirely in Oloroso and PX sherry casks 

• Nose: Layers of dried figs, raisins, dark cherries, plum pudding, toffee pudding, marzipan, warm spices, leather, and polished wood 

• Palate: Full-bodied and oily—rich plum, chocolate, espresso, cocoa powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, mixed with dry oak and subtle menthol 

• Finish: Exceptionally long and warming—peppery oak spice, dark chocolate, cigar wrapper, liquorice, and enduring sherry-soaked fruit 

🧭 Character & Context

• "Sherry monster" finesse: Bold and richly layered without veering into sweetness overload—comforting and refined 

• Complexity & era: Early batches may contain whiskies closer to 26–27 years due to distillery closure years

• Name origin: Named after the "parliament" of rooks (crows) nesting around the distillery—not political reference 

🎖 Accolades & Reception

• Awards:

  • Silver at 2013 IWSC

  • Double Gold at the 2022 San Francisco Spirits Competition

  • Best Highland Single Malt — World Whisky Awards 2020 

• Praise:

  “Showpiece… long finish” – Tyson Stelzer (97 pts)
  “Molasses, warm toffee pudding… sugared almonds… thick and chewy” – Whisky Magazine 8.4/10 

🥂 Why You’ll Love It

• Rich sherry depth: A decadent fusion of dark fruits, chocolate, and spice—with balance and elegance.

• Silky mouthfeel: Despite 48% ABV, texture is smooth, oily, and luxurious.

• A whisky to savor: Ideal for contemplative, slow sipping—perfect by the fire or post-dinner with dark chocolate or dried fruit.

✅ Final Take

GlenDronach 21-Year-Old Parliament is a high-caliber sherried dram—rich, complex, and beautifully balanced. It's a celebration of time in oak, perfect for collectors and connoisseurs who appreciate depth, warmth, and brewing-layered elegance.

"Rich and deep aromatics of sticky toffee pudding, toasted cinnamon, and apple tarte tatin dance in the ethers. Bold and full-bodied, with plenty of tertiary elements like old leather, charred earth, and dried bergamot. The finish is long, punctuated by peppercorn and clove." 94 Points 2022 Ultimate Spirits Challenge