Established in 1823, Auchentoshan (Ock-un-tosh-un) Distillery is on the mainland of Scotland, situated on the A82 between Glasgow and Loch Lomond. This Lowlands Malt Distillery rests at the foot of the Kilpatrick Hills, overlooking the famous River Clyde, once renowned as the Scottish gateway to the world. It was rebuilt in 1875, bombed in World War II, repaired in 1949, and re-equipped in 1974.
Auchentoshan, meaning ‘Corner of the field’, produces a delicate, smooth and light Single Malt Whisky. The subtle aroma and flavour of its spirit is achieved by the unique Triple Distillation process, whereby the spirit is not distilled twice, as elsewhere in Scotland, but instead, distilled three times producing even greater refinement to its character.
Its process water is supplied from Loch Katrine and its cooling water is collected in a WW2 bomb crater in the hills. It uses unpeated malt supplied to order, and operates a copper-topped stainless steel mash tun, 4 Oregon pine washbacks, and 3 stills. The spirit emerges from the wash still at 18% alcohol, at 54% from the intermediate still, and at 81% from the spirit still. The intermediate still is charged with low wines from the wash still and removes most of the feints before being distilled for a third time in the spirit still – the result is an output from the spirit still that is the highest strength in Scotland. The whisky is matured in a mixture of American bourbon and Spanish sherry casks, including some Oloroso and Pedro-Jimenez casks that are specially prepared in Spain.
The distillery has had six careful owners who have handed down its unique production process and Auchentoshan has been extensively refurbished since its acquisition by Morrison Bowmore Distillers Ltd in 1984.
Available from June 2008, the distillery has created a range of different tastes that can be enjoyed on a variety of occasions. The taste profile is soft, delicate and zesty – perfect for new whisky drinkers or established single malt drinkers in search of a new tipple to add to their repertoire.
The new range introduces new expressions – Classic and 18 year old while 12 year old, Three Wood and 21 year old will feature the new look which is the first major revamp in more than 12 years.
Pale gold in appearance, Classic offers a nose of vanilla and coconut with a hint of green apple and a tang of citrus zest. The rich and creamy expression presents a sweet vanilla cream palate with a hint of fresh green apple and mint with a fresh floral, zesty finish.
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