Dangerously Drinkable Drams: Auchentoshan 12 yr Old Single Malt Whisky

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Price: £36.00

ABV: 40%

Chill Filtered: Yes

Natural Colour: No

Supplier: Amazon

Description: Auchentoshan is the only Triple Distilled Single Malt In Scotland. The new spirit is the highest distillate of any single malt distillery in Scotland with all the impurities in the liquid distilled away and as such, makes Auchentoshan the smoothest, most delicate tasting single malt scotch whisky. The 12 year old is triple distilled then matured for over twelve years. This Lowland Single Malt Whisky has the tempting aroma of toasted almonds, caramelised toffee and the signature smooth, delicate, Auchentoshan taste.

General Description: Auchentoshan is one of those whisky's that I just have a soft spot for. The distillery is in the heart of Glasgow, making it one of those rare Lowland's whisky's along with Glenkinchie. As lowland whisky's are noted for being lighter in style, I was pleasantly surprised by the richness and flavour of the 12 yr Old; especially being bottled at 40% ABV and being chill filtered. The whisky has been aged in a combination of American and European Oak; previously holding either bourbon or Oloroso sherry and the result is a lovely, lightly sherried, fruity whisky that is well worth a purchase. Frequently readers will know that I am very critical of whisky that is 40% ABV and chill filtered, but at £36 (postage free) this isn't a complaint that I would be particularly vociferous about. Beginner or whisky connoisseur, based on what I have tasted here I would recommend the Auchentoshan 12 yr Old (at this price) to anyone.

Without Water

Nose: A wonderful golden colour and perfumes nose are immediately apparent. There is a combination of sherried and orchard fruits in there along with a sweet honeyed note. The strongest scent is of freshly cut Braeburn (I think) apple flesh, but also sweet, juicy California raisin in there. Like an uncooked apple and raisin pie. A classic combination. The scent is not overtly strong (no surprise there), but it is distinctive; and when when you explore it, it is very pleasant.

Palate: There is a surprising richness to the whisky; its thick and mouth filling, leaving the mouth watering. Again I'm getting orchard fruits but significantly less of the sherried element (at least initially). That sweet honey is present on the palate which evolves into quite a grapey, winey flavour whilst maintaining the richness of a liqueur. I'm trying to think what it reminds me of; it's familiar, but unusual. This is a very pleasant, fruity whisky that packs a richness and fullness that is unexpected from the 40% ABV.

Finish: The finish is fruity and mellow; but despite a lack of intensity, it is fairly long lasting. Again I'm very impressed by this whisky which is triple distilled, chill filtered and bottled at a lightweight ABV. Considering the price I'm left thinking that it shouldn't be as good as it is!

With Water

Nose: Five drops of water and a little time and the nose really starts to pop out of the glass. Exploration reveals a fruity vanilla'd nose; subtly fruity with a strawberry jam note. Again very pleasant. Stewed raisins and sultana's start to come through nicely and this really starts to evolve into a beautiful, lightly sherried whisky.

Palate: The palate is again a treat. It's different but equally good; maybe even better! It's thick still, but maybe a touch less than before. The whisky is a little more spicy than before with dried peppercorns, cloves and perhaps a hint of nutmeg. I can't say that this is alcohol burn as it wasn't as prominent without the drops of water.

Finish: As the whisky evolves, the nose and palate seem to return to that Apple and raisin, well not pie; but French patisserie or tart. Its green and fresh, yet rich and mouth-filling with lovely vanilla's and hints of dried red fruits which really adds to the aroma. Again, a whisky that is £35, is only 40% ABV and is chill filtered has no rights being this good!

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