As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting Glenlivet Founder's Reserve multiple times. When it comes to the question of whether it is smoky, the answer is no. Glenlivet Founder's Reserve does not have any noticeable smoky or peaty characteristics. It is a whisky that focuses more on the flavors derived from the charred oak.
Upon nosing the whisky, I did not detect any smoky or peaty aromas. Instead, what stood out was the rich scent of charred oak. This is a characteristic commonly found in whiskies that have been aged in oak barrels. The aroma is reminiscent of toasted wood, with a slightly sweet and vanilla undertone.
Moving on to the tasting, the lack of smokiness was reaffirmed. The flavor profile of Glenlivet Founder's Reserve is dominated by the influence of the oak barrels. There are no hints of peat or smoke, which can sometimes be present in other whiskies. Instead, the taste is smooth and balanced, with a touch of sweetness and a subtle hint of citrus.
It is worth noting that Glenlivet Founder's Reserve does not showcase any particular barrel finish, such as sherry or bourbon. This allows the natural flavors of the whisky to shine through, without any additional influence from the cask. This may be one of the reasons why there is no smoky or peaty character in this particular expression.
In my personal experience, I have found Glenlivet Founder's Reserve to be a great choice for those who prefer a smoother and more approachable whisky. Its lack of smokiness makes it a versatile option that can be enjoyed by both novice and seasoned whisky drinkers alike.
To summarize, Glenlivet Founder's Reserve is not a smoky whisky. It focuses more on the flavors derived from the charred oak, with no noticeable influence from peat or smoke. The absence of a specific barrel finish allows the natural flavors to shine through, resulting in a smooth and balanced taste with a touch of lemon.