Glenfiddich Gran Reserva Aged 21 Years Single Malt Scotch Whisky Caribbean Rum Cask Finish 750ml

Glenfiddich Gran Reserva is the original rum cask finished single malt scotch and one of the most influential releases in the history of cask finishing experimentation. Patiently matured 21 years in traditional ex bourbon oak casks at the Glenfiddich distillery in Dufftown, Scotland, the whisky is then finished up to four months in hand selected Caribbean rum casks, awakening the mature Speyside spirit with tropical fruit, ginger, fig, and lime notes that build to a crescendo of sweet toffee and spicy warmth. The expression was originally launched in 2002 as Havana Reserve, then renamed Gran Reserva in 2012 due to the United States embargo on Cuban origin products. It is part of Glenfiddich's Grand Collection, sitting alongside the Grand Cru 23 and Grande Couronne 26 as the brand's age stated celebration range. Presented in a striking orange and gold gift box with the iconic Glenfiddich stag, this is a luxurious dram for collectors, gift givers, and anyone seeking a refined Speyside profile with an unexpected Caribbean twist.

ABV / Proof

Tasting Notes

Color: Clear golden amber with a slight coppery hue from the Caribbean rum cask finish.

Nose: Intense and vanilla sweet with floral lift, hints of banana, fig, rich toffee, new leather, and soft oak underneath.

Palate: Initially soft, then brisk, vibrant, and drying. Sharp ginger and lime zest meet sultry fig, peppery spice, a touch of smoke, and the unmistakable molasses sweetness from the rum cask influence. Tropical fruit notes of mango, papaya, and pineapple roll through the mid palate.

Finish: Very long, warming, dry, and spicy with lingering toffee, candied ginger, and toasted oak.

FAQ

What makes Gran Reserva unique? It is the original rum cask finished single malt scotch, pioneering the Caribbean rum cask finishing technique now widely imitated across the category. After 21 years in ex bourbon oak, the whisky is finished up to four months in hand selected Caribbean rum casks, adding tropical fruit, ginger, and toffee notes that no traditional sherry or bourbon finish replicates.

Why was it renamed from Havana Reserve? When first released in 2002, the expression was called Havana Reserve, a direct reference to the Cuban rum casks used for finishing. The United States embargo on Cuban origin products created a problem for US distribution, even for second hand casks, so Glenfiddich renamed the release to Gran Reserva in 2012 to allow global market access while preserving the Caribbean rum cask finishing program.

Where is the rum from? Glenfiddich sources hand selected Caribbean rum casks for the finishing program. The exact rum origin is not publicly specified, but the rum is described as Caribbean origin from multiple Caribbean sources rather than a single distillery.

How does this compare to the Glenfiddich 12 Year? The flagship Glenfiddich 12 Year is the global single malt benchmark, accessible, fruit forward, and 80 proof. Gran Reserva is the same Speyside DNA stretched to 21 years with the addition of a Caribbean rum cask finish, sitting in the middle of the Glenfiddich Grand Collection between the 18 Year and the 23 Year Grand Cru.

Where can I buy Glenfiddich 21 Year Gran Reserva online? Available here at Liquor On Broadway while stock lasts, with fast insured shipping nationwide.