GSN Review: Auchentoshan Scotch Whiskies

It’s always a learning curve trying to figure out how to properly pronounce scotch distilleries’ names. FYI, Auchentoshan Distillery is pronounced Aw-khen-tosh-an and translates into “the corner of the field”. One of five distilleries in the Scottish Lowlands, it is located on the outskirts of Clydebank in Dunbartonshire in the west of Scotland.

Auchentoshan create single malt whiskies, but what you may not be aware of is that their scotches are triple distilled. Very unusual, since that practice is usually reserved for Irish whiskies. They also use unpeated malt, and age in used bourbon and sherry barrels, giving their product an extra touch of sweetness, which definitely comes through in each of the following whiskies.

Auchentoshan Classic (80 proof) – Very light straw-like color. Light waft of peat smoke, lemon citrus, cinnamon bread, sun-dried tomato nose.
Flavor is medium sweet with malted barley, very light smokiness, sugar cube, yeasty bread dough and orange oil. Very drinkable and pleasant. GSN Rating: B

Auchentoshan 12 Year Old (80 proof) – Warm amber color. The nose is withdrawn and hesitant. Very little in the way of enticement. However, the initial taste is quite smooth and balanced with a lingering smokey and warming heat. Flavor has notes of hazelnuts, cinnamon sugar, vanilla creme, marshmallow and white pepper. The finish is medium long and slightly spicy. GSN Rating: B+

Auchentoshan Three Wood (86 proof) – Dark golden orange color. The nose is smokey and super sweet with very deep vanilla and sherry character. As time goes on an aged honey quality comes out with just the slightest hint of pineapple. Elegant and nuanced with various layers of wood coming in delicate waves. Mouthfeel is thick and rich with a somewhat viscous honey-like quality. The finish is buttery without being cloying. Really a fine spirit that is in the character of an aged rum. GSN Rating: A-