As an experienced sommelier and brewer, I had the opportunity to sample Glenfiddich 30 at the Whisky Show. I found it to be a highly enjoyable whisky, scoring it 87 points.
Compared to the XXX expression from Glenfiddich, the 30-year-old had a more vibrant and lively character. It showcased the distillery's signature fresh fruit notes and malty undertones. While the XXX had a stronger Sherry influence, the 30-year-old had a more balanced flavor profile where the distillery character stood out.
In terms of age, the 30-year-old didn't feel as matured as one might expect. However, this didn't detract from the overall experience, as the balance and complexity of flavors were still present. The whisky had a certain elegance and finesse, showcasing the craftsmanship and expertise that went into its production.
I appreciate that Glenfiddich chose to highlight its distillery character in this expression. It allowed me to truly appreciate the unique flavors and qualities that Glenfiddich has to offer. The freshness of the fruit notes and the smoothness of the malt were particularly enjoyable.
I would say that Glenfiddich 30 is a good whisky. It may not have the same level of maturity as other 30-year-old expressions on the market, but it more than makes up for it with its vibrant flavors and well-balanced profile. If you're a fan of Glenfiddich's distillery character and enjoy whiskies with fresh fruit and malt notes, then the Glenfiddich 30 is definitely worth trying.