Making its presence on the Australian scene known with the recent launch of what Beam Suntory and CCA are calling the “Distilled Different” campaign, Lowlands single malt Scotch whisky Auchentoshan American Oak is here to make a case for the distillery’s distinctive commitment to triple distilling every single drop.
Whisky in Australia is only getting more competitive as long as established brands keep bringing their releases down under, but being that Auchentoshan American Oak follows very well received expressions like the beautiful Three Wood it’s unlikely whisky enthusiasts will gloss over this one – they’d be remiss to do so.
The light gold, amber liquid is bottled at 40% ABV with no age-statement and a highly agreeable nose of buttery biscuits, vanilla, and fresh fruits, I would expect characters drawn from maturing the whisky in first fill ex-bourbon barrels. It doesn’t take long to get the idea that this is one very approachable whisky, but one which maintains the same complexity the Glasgow distillery has become known for. The first sip is exceptionally smooth and buttery, easy on the palate until about halfway when a burst of variety kicks in; we’re talking strong hints of coconut, cloves, and vanilla beans, slowly morphing into a fruitier back palate that’s crispy with hits of grapefruit, lemon, and apple. It ends with a slight touch of cinnamon before it drops off, maintaining that kind of softness that would have you easily serving this up to even the most casual whisky fan. The thinness may be off-putting to some, and it really depends what mood you’re in and what occasion your drinking for.
Use in cocktails seems like a must, but enjoying a dram is the way to go here and there would be little need for water. The suitability for cocktails is probably why Beam Suntory went with the more creative side for their competition, tasking cocktail makers and photographers to team up for a chance to win a pretty sweet trip. You can get details of the campaign from our recent news piece HERE. Exhibitions will be taking place throughout August and September of this year.
Auchentoshan American Oak is available in all reputable bars and liquor stores across Australia for RRP $59.90.
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