Auchentoshan Bartender's Malt Review
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: Auchentoshan Distillery, Glasgow, Scotland.
- Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
- Distillation: Unique triple distillation process.
- Maturation: Matured in a combination of American and German oak casks, as well as sherry and red wine casks.
- Age Statement: No age statement.
- Color: Golden copper with green reflections.
- Clarity: Not specifically mentioned, but the presence of green reflections suggests a clear liquid.
- Bottle Design: The label features the number "01," indicating it is the first in a series of annual limited editions. The design emphasizes its creation by a group of international bartenders.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- Nose: Dried apricots, milk chocolate, honey, and green tobacco leaf.
- Palate: Cherry blossom, brioche, and ginger. Noted for its oiliness and sharp, spicy ginger flavor.
- Finish: Edgy and expanding with a long-lasting warmth. The oak presence is strong in the aftertaste.
- ABV: 47%, higher than the typical Auchentoshan offerings.
- Overall: The whisky is described as having a weak aroma but an extremely strong taste and aftertaste, particularly noted for its oakiness.
Whisky Storytelling
- The Bartender's Malt was crafted by 12 innovative bartenders from around the world, including Germany, the USA, the UK, Sweden, and Canada. This collaboration is a "world first," with the bartenders directly involved in the creation process, learning from master blenders and contributing their individual personalities to the malt.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- Auchentoshan is one of the few distilleries to use a triple distillation process, which typically results in a higher ABV from the last still but a weaker distillery character. This whisky, however, breaks the mold with its higher ABV and strong flavor profile, designed specifically for use in cocktails.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- "This one is really thought for mixing." - Highlighting the whisky's intended use in cocktails.
- "You have to pay for the 12 bartenders." - Commenting on the price point relative to the no age statement and the unique creation process.
- "I would prefer a three wood or toshin three wood over this bartender's malt." - Personal preference expressed by the reviewer.
Summary
- Auchentoshan Bartender's Malt is a unique single malt Scotch whisky created by 12 bartenders from around the world.
- It features a higher ABV of 47%, with a flavor profile designed for cocktails, emphasizing oakiness in the aftertaste.
- The whisky is matured in a mix of American and German oak, sherry, and red wine casks, contributing to its complex flavor.
- The creation process and international collaboration behind this whisky make it a notable addition to the Auchentoshan range.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- Cocktail Enthusiasts: Given its design for mixing and strong aftertaste, this whisky is ideal for those who enjoy crafting or experimenting with whisky-based cocktails.
- Whisky Collectors: The limited edition nature and unique story behind its creation make it a compelling addition to any collection.
- Adventurous Drinkers: Individuals looking to explore whiskies with unconventional production stories and international influences would find this malt intriguing.