Originally published as part of “WhiskyFest New York’s Memorable Tastes” on Bevvy (2/26/2020)
This hard-to-find scotch whisky has been discontinued, but it’s possible to find the rare bottle in bars, where it goes for an exorbitant price. It was released as a one-time offering after a 2010 snowstorm hit the Glenfiddich Distillery, causing one of the warehouses to collapse. It wasn’t until about a month after the collapse that distillery workers could get inside, clear the snow and collect the salvaged barrels. Instead of blending those barrels into a regular release of Glenfiddich, they decided to blend them into a special release dubbed “Snow Phoenix.” Coming in at a very approachable 47.6% ABV, it’s comprised of 13–30-year-old malts aged in a blend of American and European oak.
Nose: Very forward notes of apple, followed by pear and a hint of shortbread. Hints of American oak with heavy char and caramel.
Palate: It’s weird, but in a good way. Very complex flavors. Slightly peppery with a slight astringent touch, Granny Smith apples, Red Delicious apples, and sour dough. A beautiful sour and funky aspect finishes out the palate, but there is still a wonderful depth of flavor to round things out.
Score: ★★★★★