Auchentoshan 1999 Signatory Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Auchentoshan Distillery, independently bottled by Signatory Vintage.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation: Triple distillation process, utilizing three stills, which results in a higher ABV of the raw whisky (around 80%) and a smoother final product.
Maturation: Aged for 15 years (from September 1, 1999, to February 23, 2015) in ex-bourbon barrels, specifically refill casks, to achieve its unique flavor profile.
Age Statement: 15 years.
Color and Clarity: The color suggests refill casks were used, indicating a lighter color typical of such maturation.
Bottle Design: Part of the Un-chill Filtered Collection by Signatory Vintage, indicating it is not chill-filtered, preserving more of the whisky's natural flavors and oils.

Balance of Flavors: A balance between fruitiness and oakiness, with a notable presence of alcohol that does not overpower the whisky's inherent flavors.
Unique Characteristics: Exhibits a smooth character due to triple distillation, with a complex flavor profile that includes light vanilla, caramel (not sweet), fruitiness (especially orange and bitter orange), and hints of cocoa and coffee towards the finish.
Comparison: Compared to previous bottlings from the same batch, this whisky shows a more fruity character and less sweetness, moving away from the candy-like sweetness to a more nuanced profile.

Interesting Anecdotes: Signatory Vintage, the independent bottler, has the capability and willingness to purchase full truckloads of distilled batches from distilleries, indicating a significant investment in quality and selection. The consecutive cask numbers (800,260 and 800,261) suggest a deliberate choice to blend for an average aroma, showcasing the bottler's strategic approach to flavor consistency.

Historical Context: Auchentoshan is known for its triple distillation process, a method not commonly used in Scotch whisky production, which contributes to its distinct smoothness and flavor profile.

"This is the first whisky I have today, and if I'm able to smell alcohol, then it's clear that the distillery character, that the own taste of the whisky is quite intense." - Horst Luening, indicating the robust character of the Auchentoshan 1999 Signatory.
"The price is already quite high, close to 60. And well, it's quite old whisky and if you compare it with the original bottlings of Auchentoshan where you less and less find ages on the label then this one is reasonably priced." - Reflecting on the value proposition of this whisky.

Independently bottled Auchentoshan 1999 by Signatory Vintage, aged 15 years in ex-bourbon refill casks.
Features a smooth, complex flavor profile with a balance of fruitiness, light vanilla, caramel, and hints of oak.
Triple distillation process contributes to its distinct smoothness.
Signatory Vintage's strategic approach to selecting and blending casks for consistency.
Reasonably priced considering its age and quality, offering good value for whisky enthusiasts.

Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with a preference for smooth, complex single malts with a notable fruitiness and less sweetness.
Collectors: Individuals interested in unique, independently bottled expressions from reputable bottlers like Signatory Vintage.
Beginners: May find this whisky's smoothness and balanced flavor profile a good introduction to aged single malts, though the price point may be better suited for those looking to explore beyond entry-level offerings.