Glenrothes 20 Years Old Antique Lions of Spirits The Butterflies 57% 1997

Professionele reviews

Serge Valentin (83)

Colour: amber. Nose: this one’s rather rounder, with more honey and raisins. A more civilised version of the one for Sweden, if you like. Whiffs of stewed strawberries, perhaps. With water: these earthy smells once again, moss, tobacco, cocoa, even a little menthol… The roundness went away. Mouth (neat): rich, rather sweet again. Some kind of peppered orange liqueur with an earthier background (our beloved gentian eau-de-vie), plus some mead and sweet white wine. Perhaps proper PX? With water: pepper up big time. Finish: long, peppery, dry, with some coffee and almost a saltiness. Comments: a very good malt that goes from sweet(ish) to very dry.

Whisky Notes (87)

Nose: better, with more balance and less dirty notes. More barley notes, baked apples and classic oranges, a little brioche and hazelnut praline. Whiffs of wet gravel, nice leafy notes and tree bark. Hints of vanilla, cinnamon and dark bread. More layered and refined. Mouth: autumnal profile again, but balanced. Light tobacco, ginger, hints of marmalade and apples. Nutty notes. Mint and some dry leafy notes. Finish: medium long, fairly dry, on nuts and soft herbs.
The most complex, refined Glenrothes of this trio and my favourite. Autumnal sherry influence without overdoing it. Good

BOW (88)

Ah, the Glenrothes 20 Years Old Antique from the Lions of Spirits, aptly named "The Butterflies"—a whisky that promises to flutter delicately on the palate while embodying the grace of two decades of maturation. Distilled in 1997 and bottled in 2017, this single malt expression is a testament to the artistry and dedication of both the Glenrothes distillery and the independent bottler, Lions of Spirits.

Bottled at a robust 57% alcohol by volume, The Butterflies is not merely a whisky; it's an exploration of time and craftsmanship that unfolds with each sip. The Lions of Spirits, known for their discerning cask selection and commitment to quality, bring a unique touch to this particular release.

Distilled in 1997, this Glenrothes expression has spent two decades maturing in oak casks, developing a depth and complexity that is characteristic of well-aged single malts. The choice of casks and the length of maturation play a crucial role in shaping the flavor profile, creating a whisky that is both refined and nuanced.

The name "The Butterflies" evokes a sense of delicacy and transformation, perhaps indicative of the metamorphosis that occurs within the cask during the aging process. As you lift the glass to your nose, the aroma is a symphony of rich, fruity notes, with hints of vanilla, oak, and a touch of spice. It's an olfactory journey that sets the stage for the tasting experience.

On the palate, The Butterflies dances gracefully, revealing layers of flavor. The sweetness of dried fruits, caramel, and a subtle warmth of oak intertwine, creating a harmonious balance. The higher alcohol content at 57% imparts a boldness that complements the complexity, inviting enthusiasts to explore the intricate nuances with each sip.

The finish is a lingering encore, with the warmth of the whisky leaving a lasting impression. It's an invitation to reflect on the journey of the spirit, from the distillation in 1997 to the moment it was carefully bottled for the Butterflies Series in 2017.

In conclusion, the Glenrothes 20 Years Old Antique Lions of Spirits The Butterflies at 57% is not just a whisky; it's a celebration of time, transformation, and the artistry of two entities—the Glenrothes distillery and the Lions of Spirits. Whether you're a seasoned whisky connoisseur or an admirer of the delicacy that comes with aging, The Butterflies invites you to savor the elegance and complexity within each dram. Cheers to the butterflies that dance within the golden elixir and the journey of flavors that unfold in this exquisite expression!