The Darkness Glenrothes 13 Year Old Oloroso Cask Finish is a masterclass in Speyside indulgence, the meeting point between Glenrothes’ naturally elegant spirit and Darkness’ signature sherry intensity. Glenrothes has long been known for its orchard sweetness and silky texture, but under the influence of a rich Oloroso finish, it transforms into something darker, deeper, and luxuriously complex. The first sip feels like stepping into a velvet-draped lounge filled with candlelight, spice, and soft conversation, refined yet irresistibly warm.

Darkness Glenrothes 13 Year Old Oloroso Cask Finish 50cl
Brand: Darkness | Category: Single Malt Scotch Whisky | ABV: 51.3% | Origin: Speyside, Scotland | Vol: 500ml

Tasting Profile:
Nose:
Lush aromas of dried fruit, treacle, and polished oak greet the senses. Beneath, notes of orange zest, honeyed malt, and roasted almonds rise, with a faint echo of cocoa and spice.
Palate:
Smooth yet powerful, with a wave of dark chocolate, raisins, and rich toffee. Mid-palate reveals bursts of spiced orange, nutmeg, and gentle oak tannins. The Glenrothes fruitiness, pears and golden apples, still shines through, wrapped in sherry warmth.
Finish:
Long, sweet, and gently spiced. Lingering notes of brown sugar, walnut, and red fruit fade into a soft, oaky embrace.

Production Details:
Distilled at Glenrothes in the heart of Speyside, this single malt was matured in traditional oak before being finished in hand-selected Oloroso sherry octave casks, smaller barrels that amplify flavor and color through intense wood contact. Bottled at a natural 51.3%, non-chill filtered, and with no added color, it showcases both distillery purity and Darkness’ signature sherry richness.

Perfect For:
The perfect dram for those who crave balance, sweetness and spice, elegance and depth. Best enjoyed during quiet evenings or as a luxurious end to a fine meal. It’s a whisky that invites reflection as much as pleasure.

Expert Notes:
Whisky writers have praised this release for how deftly it marries Glenrothes’ soft fruit profile with Oloroso’s indulgent character. Described as “sherry done right,” it retains Speyside finesse beneath layers of opulent sweetness. A whisky that shows how finishing can elevate, not overshadow.

Customer Reviews:
“Rich, smooth, and layered, sherry perfection in a glass.”
“The Glenrothes fruit really sings under that dark sweetness. Beautiful balance.”
“Like dessert and oak spice rolled into one, dangerously moreish.”

Interesting Fact:
The Glenrothes distillery is famed for its “house character” of ripe fruit and gentle vanilla, thanks to slow distillation and tall copper stills. Darkness’ Oloroso cask finishing intensifies those traits, adding depth and drama without losing the core identity of the spirit.

Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy neat for full richness, or add a drop of water to tease out the citrus and nutty undertones. Pairs wonderfully with dark chocolate, candied orange peel, or even a slice of Christmas pudding.

Distillery Background:
Founded in 1879 in the village of Rothes, Glenrothes has built a reputation for crafting elegant, fruit-driven Speyside malts prized by blenders and connoisseurs alike. Known for long fermentations and a spirit of exceptional purity, the distillery’s whiskies often age gracefully in sherry casks. In Darkness’ hands, that classic fruit-forward style gains a new dimension, bold, indulgent, and glowing with sherry warmth, the 13 Year Old stands as a stunning example of what modern finishing can achieve.