A Unique Collaborative Project

Glenfiddich Project XX represents a fascinating approach to whisky creation: collective expertise. This is the second installment of Glenfiddich's Experimental Series, where twenty whisky experts curated their favorite casks to create one refined expression together. This collaborative process sets Project XX apart from standard distillery releases and makes it a genuinely interesting experimental project for enthusiasts seeking something beyond the usual Speyside single malts.

The combination of experience and preferences from twenty different experts results in a whisky that offers depth and complexity. This isn't random blending; it's a thoughtfully considered selection where each cask plays a specific role in the final result. At 47% ABV, Project XX carries enough strength to showcase all nuances without overwhelming the palate.

Nose: Refined Citrus and Spice

On the nose, Project XX unfolds as an aromatic labyrinth. The first impression brings citrus forward, followed by warm caramel and subtle almond notes. These are not rough-hewn aromas; they present themselves elegantly and invitingly. The dried spices add a spicy dimension, while a hint of saltiness – likely from specific casks – introduces an interesting maritime element.

This nose is a promising indicator of what's to come. The combination of sweet (caramel, almond) and dry (spices, salt) suggests a whisky that will be both approachable and varied. Some tasters also report notes of orange peel and baked apples, underscoring how the diverse cask selection brings forward different fruity characters.

Palate: Honey, Oak, and Sherried Nuances

On the palate, Project XX reveals its full character. It begins with dried fruit and honey – a soft, seductive foundation – but quickly evolves into more complex tones. Oak is clearly present, not intrusive but as a solid backbone. The sherry influence from the cask selection manifests subtly but noticeably, adding a richness that doesn't appear from nowhere.

Tasters report specific spice notes such as cinnamon and white pepper, which push the dried spices from the nose further forward. The texture is described as "rich and oily," suggesting that the cask selection was optimized not just for flavor but also for mouthfeel. A hint of smokiness rounds out the whole, without dominating – it adds layers rather than overpowering other flavors.

Finish: Lingering and Spiced

The finish of Project XX is satisfying and persistent. Dried spices and oak dominate this phase, providing a warm, pleasant conclusion. This is no fleeting flash; tasters report a "medium long" finish that reminds you of the complexity you just experienced.

This lingering character is important for appreciating this whisky. It suggests that the cask selection was carefully executed – only casks that contributed something valuable to the final product were included. The finish feels like a natural conclusion to the flavor journey, not an abrupt cutoff.

Practical Tasting Advice and Appreciation

Glenfiddich Project XX is versatile in how you can enjoy it. Drinking it neat allows all nuances to shine through, but a few drops of water can "open up" the flavors and reveal certain tones further. It also works well with ice, especially if you prefer a more refreshing profile – the citrus and honey then come to the fore.

The price of approximately £45-50 is considered excellent value by tasters for the quality and complexity you receive. This is no overpriced experimental gimmick; it's a genuinely well-crafted whisky that's worth its money. For anyone familiar with standard Glenfiddich expressions, Project XX offers an interesting departure – the same distillery quality, but with a unique twist through the collective choices of experts.

Conclusion: A Worthy Experimental Project

Glenfiddich Project XX is more than just "whisky of the day" – it's a testament to collaborative thinking in the whisky world. The Experimental Series shows that Glenfiddich is willing to take risks and try new approaches. This second installment delivers a whisky complex enough to interest whisky nerds, yet approachable enough for anyone who enjoys well-made single malt.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or just beginning your whisky exploration, Project XX deserves a spot on your tasting list. It's a whisky that makes you ask questions – who selected which cask? How would my own selection look? – and that's exactly what experimental whiskies should do.