Thompson Brothers Whisky Sample Glenrothes Vintage 1996 29 Year Old 2025 Release (30ml, 45.1%)

Thompson Brothers Whisky Sample Glenrothes Vintage 1996 29 Year Old 2025 Release (30ml, 45.1%)

This 29-year-old Glenrothes is a highlight of the Thompson Brothers’ 2025 Release cycle. It represents a style of Speyside whisky that is becoming increasingly rare: ultra-aged, refill-matured, and heavily focused on the "waxy" texture that made the distillery famous among blenders and enthusiasts alike.

Distilled in 1996 and matured for nearly three decades, this expression was bottled at its natural cask strength of 45.1%. While many modern Glenrothes bottlings are "sherry bombs," the Thompson Brothers have opted for a Refill Hogshead maturation here. This choice is deliberate—it allows the character of the 1996 distillate to shine through without being masked by heavy oak. The result is an elegant, sophisticated dram that feels like a step back in time to the "old-school" Speyside style.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A sophisticated "antique" aroma. It opens with beeswax and polished mahogany, followed by a basket of soft orchard fruits—stewed pears, yellow plums, and dried apricots. There’s a faint, dusty note of old library books and vanilla bean.

Palate: The texture is the star here—exceptionally silky and mouth-coating. It tastes of honeyed granola, orange marmalade, and soft toffee. As it sits, subtle spices emerge: nutmeg and a touch of white pepper, balanced by a refined waxy fruitiness.

Finish: Gentle and lingering. It leaves a delicate trail of citrus oils, toasted hazelnuts, and a ghost of sweet oak.

Why this bottle is special

The "Waxy" DNA: Glenrothes from the mid-90s is legendary for its heavy, waxy mouthfeel. This bottle is special because it preserves that texture perfectly, offering a tactile experience that younger whiskies simply cannot replicate.

The 2025 Archive Release: Being part of the newest 2025 drop, this bottle represents the current "peak" of Thompson Brothers’ cask selection. It shows their commitment to finding high-age-statement malts that prioritize elegance over aggressive wood influence.

A Meditative Speyside: At 45.1%, this isn't a "power" dram; it’s a "beauty" dram. It is special because it demands you slow down. It’s the liquid equivalent of a cashmere blanket—perfect for a rainy afternoon like today.