Following distillation, The Glenlivet XXV is aged for approximately 23 years in traditional oak casks. After its initial maturation, the whisky is double barreled, or finished, in hand-selected, first-fill sherry casks for an additional two years. The sherry casks impart a luxurious and bold aroma of ripe fruits, dark chocolate and creamy vanilla to the whisky. In addition, the sherry casks contribute hints of raisins, dates and figs, which complement the whisky's notes of walnuts, brown sugar and cinnamon. The finish is long opulent, with notes of sherry, red fruits and spices mingled together. Glenlivet XXV earned the Gold Medal at the International Spirits Challenge, the International Wine & Spirits Competition and the The Scotch Whisky Masters Competition. In addition, it earned a score of 93 points from Whisky Advocate, which said that the whisky's "flavors are seamless and elegantly balanced." It also earned a score 95 points from the Beverage Testing Institute.

Meticulously crafted over its 21 years, this whisky is put through a combination of hand-selected American oak and ex-sherry casks, which impart the distinctive flavor of dried fruits and a bold richness, vibrant intensity and long finish. Each cask is hand-selected and individually nosed and approved, and every batch has its own special nuances, making it a rare and unique liquid indeed. Aromas are beautifully melted, resonant with dried fruit from the sherry cask, but with spicy hints of cinnamon and ginger. Colored enticingly of rich amber, with shimmering shades of copper, the finish of this prestigious expression is long and warm.