S5 E30 GlenDronach + Diamond Crown Maximus

GlenDronach 12 Year Old × Diamond Crown Maximus No. 6

Spirit Notes

Whisky: GlenDronach 12 Year Old “Original”
Style: Highland Single Malt Scotch
ABV: 43%
Cask Maturation: Pedro Ximénez & Oloroso sherry casks

Cigar Notes

Cigar: Diamond Crown Maximus No. 6
Vitola: Toro
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sungrown
Binder: Dominican
Filler: Dominican
Strength: Medium–Full

Whisky Background

GlenDronach is one of Scotland’s most respected sherried malt producers, known for a robust, old-school approach that emphasizes rich cask influence over light distillate character. The 12 Year Old “Original” is matured exclusively in a combination of Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry casks, giving it depth well beyond its age statement and positioning it as a benchmark entry-level sherried Scotch.

Cigar Background

Diamond Crown Maximus represents the boldest expression within the Diamond Crown portfolio. Crafted by Tabacalera A. Fuente in the Dominican Republic, the Maximus line showcases a thick, oily Ecuadorian Sungrown wrapper over aged Dominican tobaccos. The No. 6 vitola delivers both elegance and power, with a reputation for flawless construction and a refined, evolving flavor profile.

Tasting Notes – GlenDronach 12

Nose: Dark raisin, baked fig, orange peel, toasted walnut, and soft baking spice
Palate: Sherry-soaked fruitcake, honeyed malt, cocoa powder, and cinnamon stick
Finish: Medium-long with lingering dried fruit, oak tannin, and gentle clove

Tasting Notes – Diamond Crown Maximus No. 6

Appearance: Deep chestnut wrapper with heavy oil sheen and near-seamless construction
Nose: Cedar chest, roasted coffee bean, leather, and sweet hay
Cold Draw: Cocoa nibs, molasses, subtle black pepper
Palate: Toasted cedar, dark chocolate, espresso crema, baking spice, and a slow-building pepper warmth

Pairing Takeaway

This pairing leans into richness and refinement rather than contrast. GlenDronach 12’s sherried sweetness and dried fruit depth mirror the Maximus No. 6’s cocoa, coffee, and spice-driven profile. The whisky amplifies the cigar’s chocolate and molasses notes, while the cigar reins in the Scotch’s sweetness with structure and warmth. Together, they create a layered, cohesive experience that feels deliberate and composed.