Introduction
Today, we're diving into something a bit mysterious: Glenlivet Enigma. This is a special release from the Glenlivet distillery, part of their "Mystery Series," where they release a whiskey with almost no details provided—no age statement, no cask information, nothing except the ABV, which legally must be disclosed.
Enigma was the fourth release in this series, debuting in 2019 at a whopping 60.6% ABV (121.2 proof), making it the highest-proof Scotch we've ever reviewed on the show. The concept behind this series is intriguing—it’s almost a game, where the full details about the whiskey may (or may not) be revealed later. But as of now, we’re still flying blind with the Glenlivet Enigma. So, let’s see what this mysterious Scotch has in store for us!
This review is taken from our episode "The Last of the Mohicans / Glenlivet Enigma." Click the link to listen to the review in audio format.
Nose
Brad: The nose on this is incredible. Right away, I’m getting honey, charcuterie, vanilla, and this unique herbal note—almost like watercress. It’s such a fascinating combination, and I really enjoy it. I’m giving it an 8.5/10.
Bob: I’m picking up most of what you're describing, Brad, but what hits me first is this yeasty note, almost like a younger rye or bourbon, which is unusual for Scotch. It has this bready quality that stands out more than the usual Scotch notes. I like it, but I’m cautious because that yeastiness isn’t always a good sign for me. I’m sticking with a 7.5/10 on the nose.
Taste
Brad: The palate is where this Scotch really shines. Right up front, I get a nice minty note followed by honey, and then it transitions into vegetal flavors with a touch of caramel and white pepper spice. It’s such a beautiful Scotch, and I think the complexity here is remarkable. I’m going to give it a solid 9/10.
Bob: Wow, I’m with you on that. This hits like a sweet, light Irish whiskey at the start—almost bourbon sweet, actually—and then it opens up in a big way. It’s very tingly on the mid-palate, but the finish doesn’t hit you with that harsh alcohol burn you might expect at 121 proof. There’s a smoky element, not peaty, but a nice char that’s well-balanced with the sweetness. It’s soft and bold in all the right places. I’m also giving it a 9/10.
Finish
Brad: The finish doesn’t quite reach the heights of the palate, but it’s still solid. I’m getting oak, tobacco, and a surprising cherry cordial flavor—kind of creamy, which I didn’t expect. I really like it, so I’m giving the finish an 8/10.
Bob: For me, the finish has this blend of cherry and a smoky, almost cigarette ash note. It reminds me of some of the Willett bourbons we’ve had in the past. It skirts the edge of medicinal but pulls back just enough to stay sweet. It’s definitely a step down from the palate, but still really enjoyable. I’ll match you with an 8/10.
Balance
Brad: This Scotch is so well-balanced. My scores for the nose and finish were slightly lower, but the complexity and harmony of the flavors are top-notch. I think it’s one of the best-balanced whiskeys we’ve had in a while. I’m going with a 9.5/10 here.
Bob: I agree that it’s well-balanced, but the nose didn’t quite prepare me for the complexity that came through on the palate and finish. That’s going to bring my balance score down a little, but it’s still impressive. I’m going with an 8.5/10.
Value
Brad: The tricky thing with a limited release like this is figuring out the value, especially since it’s no longer widely available. Right now, you can find it online for anywhere from $110 to $150. At the higher end of that spectrum, I’d give it a 7/10 on value. At $100, though, this would be a 9/10. So I’ll settle on 7/10 based on that $150 price point.
Bob: I got this bottle for $100, and I think it’s a steal at that price for a cask-strength Scotch with this level of complexity. Even if you find it for $120 or so, I’d still say it’s a great buy. I’m giving it an 8/10 for value.
Final Scores
Brad: I’m at a 42/50 overall. This is a beautiful Scotch that delivers complexity, balance, and a really enjoyable drinking experience. If you can find it, it’s absolutely worth adding to your collection.
Bob: I’m at a 41/50. I agree, Brad—this is a special occasion whiskey, and if you can get your hands on it, I’d highly recommend it. It feels like a no-brainer recommendation, especially for Scotch lovers.
Conclusion We’re coming out to a combined score of 41.5/50 or 83/100, making Glenlivet Enigma a strong recommendation. If you can find it at a bar, it’s definitely worth trying. And if you’re lucky enough to stumble upon a bottle, we suggest grabbing it—it’s a complex, well-balanced, high-proof Scotch that brings a lot to the table.
If you're a fan of Scotch, especially higher-proof expressions, this one deserves a spot on your shelf.
