The Glenlivet Nadurra Cask Strength

Score: 60

The Glenlivet Nàdurra Cask Strength arrived at the tasting with bold credentials, non-chill filtered, matured in first-fill Oloroso sherry casks, and packing serious heat. It promised raw Speyside power and complexity, the kind of dram that should’ve dominated the lineup. But despite its pedigree, it came fifth out of six, leaving the club scratching their heads. On the nose, it was rich and expressive: dried figs, dark chocolate, cinnamon, and a touch of orange peel. The sherry influence was unmistakable, and the high ABV gave it a dense, almost brooding presence. The palate opened with promise, spice, stewed fruits, and a creamy texture, but the alcohol quickly took over. That 60.2% wasn’t just bold, it was brash. The integration felt rushed, and the finish, while warming, leaned dry and slightly bitter. It’s a whisky that talks a big game but doesn’t quite deliver the knockout. The club expected a heavyweight, layered, complex, and memorable. Instead, they got a dram that felt like it was still in training. Big ABV, big expectations, but not enough finesse to back it up. A reminder that strength alone doesn’t win the night, balance, maturity, and cohesion do.