Auchentoshan 18 Year Old Whisky Review

Distillery: Auchentoshan
Age: 18 Years Old
ABV: 43%
Price: £92.46

Auchentoshan, the only Scottish distillery to triple-distil every drop, offers a unique take on the traditional Scotch experience. Their 18 Year Old expression is a testament to their craft and heritage, promising a journey through complexity and refinement.

First Impressions

The bottle of Auchentoshan 18 presents itself with an air of understated elegance, hinting at the mature experience contained within. Upon pouring, the whisky greets you with a warm, golden hue that invites you to take that first, anticipatory sniff.

The Flavour Journey

As you nose the whisky, you're met with a bouquet of ripe citrus fruits, interwoven with hints of toasted almonds and a subtle, floral note. It's an inviting aroma that sets the stage for the first sip.

Upon tasting, the 18-year maturation is immediately apparent. The whisky's smoothness is remarkable, with a creamy texture that coats the palate. The flavour profile is a complex symphony: vibrant orange zest, rich toffee, and a whisper of green tea. The oak influence is present but not overbearing, providing a warm, spicy backdrop that complements the delicate vanilla and honey notes.

The finish is long and satisfying, with a gentle woodiness and a touch of spice that lingers just long enough to entice you back for another sip.

Value for Money

Priced at just over 90 bucks, Auchentoshan 18 is sitting in a competitive spot. For an 18-year-old Scotch, it offers a level of sophistication that justifies the price tag. While it may not be the boldest whisky on the shelf, its uniqueness and smooth character make it a worthwhile purchase for those who appreciate a gentler, more nuanced dram.

Comparable Whiskies

If you're a fan of Auchentoshan 18, you might also enjoy Glenfiddich 18, which offers a similarly smooth experience with its own distinct fruity and oaky notes. Another worthy comparison could be the Glenlivet 18, known for its balanced profile and elegant finish.

The Distillery and Brand

Auchentoshan stands out in the Scotch whisky world with its triple distillation process, a method more commonly associated with Irish whiskey. This Lowland distillery prides itself on this unique approach, which is credited with giving their whiskies a lighter, cleaner taste. The 18 Year Old is a shining example of how this technique, combined with nearly two decades of aging, can produce a whisky that is both delicate and layered.

Summary and Rating

Rating: 4.5/5

In conclusion, the Auchentoshan 18 Year Old is a whisky that will appeal to those who value subtlety and finesse in their dram. Its balance of flavours and smooth character make it a delightful sipper, perfect for quiet evenings or sharing with good company. While it may not be the boldest or the most intense, it is certainly a well-crafted and enjoyable whisky that deserves its place on the shelf.

Pros:

• Smooth and nuanced flavour profile
• Triple-distillation leads to a unique character
• Good value for an 18-year-old Scotch

Cons:

• May be too delicate for those who prefer bold whiskies

Auchentoshan 18 is a reminder that sometimes, the quiet ones have the most to say. It's a whisky that whispers rather than shouts, but what it says is well worth listening to.