Auchentoshan, one of the few remaining Lowlands distilleries, is one you come across rather often. Usually, though, not at this age. Between 8 and 15 years old is much more common, of course, but I don’t think I have ever tasted such and oldie.

All their whisky is distilled three times, just like Hazelburn from Springbank, and just like a lot of Irish whiskey. A gimmick that lets them put whisky in the barrel at a higher strength if they want to, which warrants longer aging. Whether or not they do so, I don’t know, but I might ask Mark Dermul, an avid Auchentoshan collector.

Sniff:

Auchentoshan 27 at Master of Malt

Fresh vanilla with some basil and mint. Light woody notes with a minuscule bit of bitterness. Some rosemary too, so a rather herbal whisky, this. Autumn leaves, nougat and white chocolate.

Sip:
Sharp, but full and rather rich. Vanilla, wood, bitter, some chili pepper. Again nougat and chocolate, dark chocolate this time. Also some caramel.

Swallow:
The finish is long and doesn’t give you too much sweetness. Bitter wood, but only just. Coffee, a little bit drying and chalky.

I haven’t tasted all of the new Master of Malt single casks yet, but so far this is my favorite. The only ones that might trump this are the Clynelish and Arran. I’ve heard good things, but I find it unlikely that they take this baby’s crown. Absolutely delicious stuff, this. Depending on the end game of my whisky budget this month, I’m ordering this.

Auchentoshan 27, 58%, Master of Malt. Available in their webshop for £ 99.95 and absolutely worth it. A sample is only £ 6.76 so get it, and try it.

Official sample provided by Master of Malt.