WHAT IS
CASK STRENGTH
WHISKY?
   

WHAT DOES

CASK STRENGTH MEAN?

Rather than referring to any process the whisky has gone through, cask strength refers to what has not been done. Most whiskies are brought down to a standard percentage of alcohol by volume, or proof, by adding water to the spirit before bottling so that each batch is consistent. However, a cask strength whisky is bottled at the strength at which it’s drawn from the cask – nothing is added, and nothing is taken away.

HOW DOES IT

AFFECT THE FLAVOR?

These whiskies pack a palatable punch. When the clear spirit first goes into the cask, it’s quite singular in flavor – loaded with The Glenlivet’s unique distillery character. Over time, the whisky develops a symbiotic relationship with the oak cask – the liquid seeps into the wood grain as the flavors held in the oak are diffused into the spirit. It’s here that the intense, robust flavors – the hallmarks of a cask strength whisky – are created.

HOW DO I DRINK

CASK STRENGTH WHISKY?

If you have a higher-proof whisky in your collection, the best way to enjoy it is with water. It’s how our distillers drink it, and you should never be afraid to dilute your whisky to suit your personal tastes. Add room-temperature water or an ice cube, whichever you prefer – just be careful not to over-dilute. Add the water little by little, tasting the whisky after each addition. You’ll notice subtle changes to the taste as different tones and flavors are released, bringing out the complexities in the spirit.

WHERE DO

I BEGIN?

The Glenlivet Rum & Bourbon Fusion Cask Selection is the perfect place to start exploring whisky transformed by fusion. This exceptional range is crafted by finishing a portion of the whisky in bespoke casks made from hand-selected first-fill rum and bourbon barrels. These barrels are expertly dismantled and reassembled to deliver a luxurious new taste experience.