Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix: A Whisky Born From Adversity
Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix is a limited-edition single malt Scotch whisky created in 2010 by Glenfiddich. This unique expression arose from an unusual event: unusually heavy snowfall in Dufftown, Scotland, caused the roofs of some of Glenfiddich’s warehouses to collapse. The exposure to the harsh winter elements resulted in a singular blend of whiskies, celebrated for its robust and complex flavors.
The Tale Behind the Name
The name “Snow Phoenix” is particularly evocative. The “Snow” refers to the unprecedented snowstorm of January 2010, which blanketed the Glenfiddich distillery. The “Phoenix” symbolizes the rebirth and resilience of the spirit, salvaged from the damaged warehouses and transformed into a remarkable whisky. It’s a powerful story of turning a potential disaster into an opportunity.
Crafting the Snow Phoenix
Following the warehouse collapses, Brian Kinsman, Glenfiddich’s Malt Master, assessed the damage and sampled the exposed casks. He meticulously selected whiskies from a variety of cask types, ranging from sherry butts to American oak hogsheads. These casks, varying in age, contributed to the whisky’s multi-layered profile. The result was a non-chill filtered whisky bottled at 47.6% ABV (alcohol by volume), offering a more intense and authentic tasting experience.
Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes
Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix is known for its rich and complex character. Common tasting notes include:
* **Nose:** Aromas of baked apples, dried fruits, cinnamon, and a hint of peat smoke.
* **Palate:** A full-bodied flavor with notes of dark chocolate, sherry, orange zest, and oak spice.
* **Finish:** Long and warming, with lingering sweetness and spice.
Many whisky enthusiasts appreciate the Snow Phoenix for its balance and complexity. It offers a unique combination of sweet and spicy notes, making it a memorable dram. More info about the distillery and its products is available on Glenfiddich’s Wikipedia page.
Is Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix rare?
Yes, Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix is considered rare due to its limited release in 2010. The fact that it was a product of an unexpected event further enhances its collectibility.
What is the value of Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix?
The value of Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix fluctuates based on demand and condition. Generally, it commands a significant premium over standard Glenfiddich expressions due to its rarity. Prices can vary significantly at auction or from private sellers.
Where can I buy Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix?
Given its age and limited release, Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix is not typically found in retail stores. Your best chances of acquiring a bottle are through online auctions, specialist whisky retailers, or private collectors.
What does “non-chill filtered” mean for Snow Phoenix?
“Non-chill filtered” means that the whisky was not subjected to a chilling process to remove haze-causing compounds before bottling. This is believed by many to retain more of the whisky’s natural flavors and aromas, especially at higher alcohol percentages like 47.6% ABV.
What types of casks were used for Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix?
Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix utilized a variety of cask types that were exposed during the warehouse collapse. These include both sherry butts and American oak hogsheads of varying ages. This variety contributes to the whisky’s complex and layered flavor profile.
Summary
Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix is more than just a whisky; it’s a testament to the resilience of the distillery and the skill of the Malt Master. Born from adversity, this limited-edition expression offers a unique and memorable tasting experience that continues to be sought after by whisky enthusiasts around the world.
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