Auchentoshan 12 Year

I am actively working to finish the main expressions from some of the "second tier" Scottish distilleries, by which I mean purely in terms of availability, not quality. I finished the largest ones years ago, and now I am moving through Glengoyne, BenRiach, and now Auchentoshan, beginning with this 12-year-old. For context, this is the previous packaging, so it was bottled 5 to 10 years ago. Nose: Features dried apricot and golden raisin. Cranberry/craisin. Vanilla and toffee. Pecan and almond. Very jam-like. Strawberry and blackberry. Honeydew melon. Black pepper and cinnamon. Oak. Irish soda bread notes. Palate: Vanilla, toffee, and malt. Toasted almond. More of the dried apricot and golden raisin. Honeydew and cantaloupe. Orange citrus. Macadamia nut. Cereal grain. A funnel cake flavor. Some green grape. Finish: Vanilla, toffee, and shortbread cookie. Apple and apricot. Golden raisin. Straw/hay. Clove, nutmeg, cinnamon, and white pepper. Oak and sawdust. A moderate length. This is an enjoyable whisky. It presents a fairly typical Lowland profile. Abundant dry fruit and nuts. Almost like a liquid trail mix. It is also clean and crisp. This is the only age-stated Auchentoshan I have tried so far, and the extra time in the barrel is noticeable. This is an excellent starter whisky to introduce a friend to the category. It is easy to drink, yet it has enough complexity to make it distinct and memorable. Of the three core range expressions I have tasted from Auchentoshan, I believe this is my favorite. At $51, it is well worth the price. Rated 3.75 out of 5.

Finally, it's time to start opening some unopened bottles in the collection before my wife begins counting them. Single malt comparison: Auchentoshan 12, Cragganmore 12, and Nikka Miyagikyo. All tasted in a Glencairn glass and allowed to rest for about 30 minutes. Let's start with Auchentoshan: Nose: Fruity, cherries, raisins, and a hint of smoke. When I first poured it, the aroma was muddled, but it has completely transformed into something very inviting. Palate: Slightly oily, sweet, and exactly what the nose suggested it would be. Stone fruits, a bit of sherry, and a wisp of smoke to remind you this is Scotch, not Irish. Finish: Medium length and warm. The flavors really develop at this point, moving from apple/pear to musty grapes. It dries out at the end. I have to admit, I thought I would dislike this when I first opened the bottle, but letting it breathe for a bit changed everything. I guess I'll have to visit the Lowlands if I ever travel to Scotland. Final results of the comparison: 1st place: Miyagikyo 2nd place: Auchentoshan 12 3rd place: Cragganmore 12

Auchentoshan 12 Years is a triple-distilled single malt from Scotland's Lowlands, recognized for its light and accessible character. The nose presents subtle hints of vanilla, honey, and a touch of citrus, which are pleasant but not particularly intricate. The palate is smooth and easy to drink, offering flavors of caramel, toasted almonds, and a whisper of green apple. However, it lacks depth and character, seeming somewhat one-dimensional and, honestly, rather dull. The finish is short and unremarkable, leaving little to savor. While Auchentoshan 12 is a suitable entry-level whisky for newcomers to single malts, it doesn't excite or leave a lasting impression. Its simplicity and lack of boldness make it a forgettable dram in a competitive market. Rated 3.5 out of 5.

Uninspiring, sanitized, and weak - many whisky enthusiasts have moved on from Auchentoshan, which is unfortunate. The aroma of this triple-distilled Lowlander is light, floral, and almost Irish in style, with mild citrus fruits, porridge, and hazelnuts. Following a gentle and slightly thin arrival, the palate develops with some sherry notes, lemongrass, and soft tannins. It lacks any harshness, but everything is subdued and flavor-deficient. Cereals, mint, and fading caramel characterize the clean, fresh, and semi-dry finish. I don't wish to be overly critical, but there is significant unrealized potential. RATING: 3.0 out of 5.0 stars equals 79 points → AVERAGE

The aroma presents as vanilla sweetness with an oat-like quality, reminiscent of freshly gathered grain. The taste has a subtle fruit note and a gentle spice, but it's primarily a full-bodied sweetness that fades quickly. There's no lingering sensation or significant burn. It's nearly refreshing. A truly excellent spirit for those with moderate preferences. Both bourbon and Scotch fans should find this appealing. It also offers substantial flavor compared to other spirits from the Lowlands region.

Overall Score: 2.88 [English] [Aroma] - Smells floral. - Smells fruity and sweet, primarily like prune plum. - Dry. - No alcohol aroma. [Taste] - Slightly salty. - Mild bitterness. - Smells of wood and bourbon oak. - Gentle spice. - Light body. [Finish] - Smells woody. - Faint and short lingering sensation. [Korean] [Aroma] - Floral scent. - Fruity sweetness, mainly prune plum. - Dry. - No alcohol smell. [Taste] - A little bit salty. - Bitterness. - Woody and oak notes from bourbon. - Mild spice. - Light. [Finish] - Woody aroma. - The aftertaste is weak and short.