DRAM1 Awards Panel Edition
The Glendronach Ode to the Dark is a powerful, sherry-forward single malt that embraces rich Oloroso and PX influence according to the DRAM1 Award tasting panel. Its character is bold, complex, and layered, with a deep, dark fruit core balanced by chocolate, spice, and subtle oak.
While this is a review written based on tasting notes from the DRAM1 Awards, I also wrote about this whisky based on my own experiences. Be sure to check out my own Glendronach Ode to the Dark Review out as well, a perfect way to compare how one opinion can alter from more than a 100 opinions combined. Strength in numbers is truly where the reviews of the DRAM1 Awards make a difference! So be sure to check the reviews out side-by-side!
Stats
Distillery: Glendronach
Region: Highlands
Whisky Type: Scotch Single Malt
ABV: 50,8% (101,6 Proof)
Tasting Notes – Glendronach Ode to the Dark
Nose
The nose is intensely sherry-driven, rich and multilayered:
- Sherry influence: Oloroso and PX notes, raisins, prunes, figs, red fruits, stewed berries
- Sweet and dessert notes: chocolate, milk chocolate, caramel, toffee, vanilla, subtle honey
- Woody and earthy tones: cedarwood, oak, leather, tobacco
- Spice and subtle accents: cinnamon, nutmeg, hints of mild jodium or peat smoke
The panel found the nose deep, full, and inviting, evolving nicely in the glass. Some described cedar humidor and subtle tabacco box, giving it an elegant yet grounded character.
Palate
The palate is full, rich, and round, with a perfect balance of sweet sherry, fruit, and gentle wood spice:
- Sherry and dark fruit: raisins, plums, prunes, stewed red fruits, tutifruti, slight port-like sweetness
- Sweet backbone: milk chocolate, caramel, vanilla, toffee
- Spice and wood: oak, cinnamon, subtle pepper, lightly tannic
- Other notes: leather, mild espresso, gentle bitter edge, soft cocoa undertones
Panelists described it as warm and full-bodied, with a velvety mouthfeel. Despite its richness, it remains balanced, the sherry and oak complementing rather than overpowering.
Finish
The finish is long, satisfying, and layered, featuring:
- Lingering dark fruit and sherry: prunes, raisins, red fruits
- Sweet dessert echoes: chocolate, caramel, toffee
- Spice and wood: gentle tannins, cinnamon, subtle oak bitterness
- Other impressions: tobacco, leather, faint licorice
It is a full, oily finish, remaining warm, rich, and gently drying, leaving a persistent sweetness with a soft peppery nudge on the end.
Food Pairing
The Glendronach Ode to the Dark shines alongside rich, decadent, and spiced foods:
- Dark chocolate desserts, chocolate mousse, or fruitcake
- Roasted nuts: walnuts, pecans, almonds
- Strong cheeses: aged Gouda, Stilton, or smoked cheeses
- Spiced desserts: cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger-based treats
These pairings enhance the sherry and chocolate notes while highlighting the subtle spice and oak.
Verdict
Strengths
- Rich sherry influence: beautifully Oloroso and PX-driven, layered with dark fruits
- Complexity: chocolate, leather, spice, oak, and subtle tobacco make it a thoughtful dram
- Balance: despite being powerful, the palate remains smooth and approachable
- Finish: long, warm, and multilayered with lingering fruit, chocolate, and spice
Weaknesses
- Slightly tannic edge: minor dryness on the finish for some palates
Final Thoughts
The Glendronach Ode to the Dark is a sherry powerhouse for lovers of rich, dessert-style whiskies. The nose is inviting, the palate rich, round, and layered, and the finish long and satisfying. Its complex interplay of sherry, dark fruits, chocolate, and subtle spice makes it a standout in the Glendronach range, perfect for slow, contemplative sipping.
Verdict: Highly Recommended – a classic, full-bodied sherry bomb that balances sweetness, spice, and oak in a truly satisfying dram.
