Glenglassaugh 12 Years | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Northern coast of the Highlands, Aberdeenshire, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: A combination of bourbon, sherry, and red wine casks are used.
Age Statement: 12 years.
ABV: 45%.
Color & Clarity: Uncolored, implying natural appearance from maturation.
Bottle Design: Features a new design with a wave structure on top, symbolizing its coastal heritage.

Balance of Flavors: Complex, with a balance between sweet and spicy notes, without bitterness in the aftertaste.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky exhibits a maritime character, potentially including a tang of sea spray or a hint of peatiness, alongside a complex array of fruit flavors.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, its complexity and balance of flavors at 12 years old are highlighted as exceptional.

Distillery History: Founded in 1875 by Colonel James Moir, Glenglassaugh has a tumultuous history, including periods of mothballing and revival in the new millennium. It was sold to Highland Distillers in 1892 and has changed hands several times, most recently acquired by Brown-Forman.
Revival and Flagship: The 12-year-old expression is part of the distillery's revival, marking a significant point where the distillery has enough stock to consistently offer age-stated whiskies.

Location: Situated at the eastern end of a sanded bay in Aberdeenshire, the distillery's proximity to the sea is significant to its identity and influences the whisky's character.
Historical Context: The distillery's long history and recent revival are integral to its story, reflecting the resilience and evolution of Scotch whisky production in the Highlands.

"This malt should or shall show you the maritime or close to maritime character of the distillery."
"Very complex nose, very complex more than I expected from a 12 year old."
"No bitterness at all. So this is pure spiciness from the oak."

Glenglassaugh 12 Years is a single malt Scotch whisky from the northern coast of the Highlands, matured in a mix of bourbon, sherry, and red wine casks.
It features a complex flavor profile with a balance of sweet and spicy notes, alongside a maritime character influenced by its coastal location.
The distillery has a rich history, including periods of inactivity and revival, with the 12-year-old expression marking a new flagship product.
The whisky's design and presentation reflect its coastal heritage and the distillery's commitment to quality and tradition.

For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring the nuanced effects of coastal distillation and mixed cask maturation.
For History Buffs: Individuals fascinated by the revival stories of traditional distilleries and the evolution of whisky production.
For the Curious Beginner: New whisky drinkers looking for a complex yet accessible introduction to aged single malts without extreme peatiness or bitterness.