Auchentoshan has a history that dates back to 1828; they are in fact the oldest distillery in Glasgow. This is a producer that triple distills each of their Scotches from three pot stills. Their range of offerings features five Single Malts that are widely available as well as numerous limited edition Malts and a handful aimed specifically at travel retail. Today I’m going to take a look at two Single Malts from their range.
The Auchentoshan 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch was triple distilled after which it was aged for over twelve years. This Scotch has 40% Alcohol by volume and the suggested retail price is $50. The color of this Scotch brings to mind vibrant clover honey. Apricots and spice lead an appealing and incredibly fresh and vibrant nose. Peach, toasted hazelnut and light citrus characteristics star on the substantially weighty palate that also shows off loads of spice. Mesquite honey, black pepper and bits of clove emerge on the finish which is lengthy and impressive in its persistence. This is a notable and exciting 12 Year Old Single Malt. There are many distilleries with entries in the 12 year old category; the Auchentoshan stands out for both complexity and elegance.
The Auchentoshan Three Wood Single Malt Scotch was aged as the name would indicate in 3 different cask types. It started in American Bourbon casks followed by Spanish Oloroso Sherry and then ultimately finishing in Pedro Ximenez Sherry casks. This Scotch has 43% Alcohol by volume and a suggested retail price of $63. This Single Malt has a deep, coppery hue. Caramel, toffee and plum pudding spice aromas fill the dense nose. The palate is deep and layered with fruitcake spices, apricot, lychee, toast and a gentle hint of anise. Apple crisp, almond a touch of mocha and hints of biscotti are part of the long and warming finish. The Auchentoshan Three Wood is a very impressive release for the price point. This is a Single Malt to sit and contemplate over a long night with good company. The various casks this was aged in all add to the depth, complexity and richness of flavors here. This is a real knockout in its price range.
This was my first time sampling any of the Auchentoshan releases and I was quite impressed. The quality of their offerings and connective thread between releases in the range is quite apparent even tasting only two selections. There is an overall smoothness and delicate complexity to the palate that belies the reasonable price point of these Single Malts. That said both the 12 Year and the Three Wood are distinct in their own right. I heartily recommend either of these to anyone looking for a terrific value in Single Malt Scotch.