Glengoyne La Nerthe Cask Finish Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Glengoyne Distillery, located just north of the historical tax line between the Highlands and Lowlands of Scotland. This places it in the Highlands region.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Initially matured in traditional casks before being finished in Chateau La Nerthe wine casks from the southern Rhône region of France, known for barrique matured white wines.
Age Statement: The whisky was distilled in 1996 and bottled in 2007, making it approximately 11 years old.
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the finishing in white wine barrels may impart a unique hue.
Bottle Design: Specific design details are not mentioned, but the bottle contained 52.5% ABV whisky.

Balance of Flavors: The whisky presents a complex interplay of fruitiness, sweetness, and a hint of sourness, with a notable intensity of fresh fruit flavors.
Unique Characteristics: The finishing in Chateau La Nerthe casks introduces a distinctive fruitiness to the whisky, with notes of sweet fruit, citron, perhaps pineapple, vanilla, citrus grass, and a buttery oily texture. The oak influence is minimal, allowing the fruit and ester notes to shine.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, the unique finishing process sets it apart from Glengoyne's standard range.

Distillery History: Glengoyne Distillery, known for its picturesque setting, was acquired by Ian McLeod in 2003, aiming to become an integrated whisky company. The distillery has a history of experimenting with cask finishes, including this unique Chateau La Nerthe finish.
Cask Finish Story: The choice of Chateau La Nerthe, a prestigious wine estate in southern Rhône, for the cask finish adds a layer of luxury and exclusivity to the whisky.

Geographical Location: Glengoyne's location near the historical tax line between the Highlands and Lowlands is a point of interest, emphasizing its unique position in Scotch whisky geography.
Cask Origin: The use of Chateau La Nerthe casks connects the whisky to the rich winemaking tradition of southern Rhône, France, highlighting a cross-cultural exchange in the maturation process.

Horst Luening describes the whisky as "wonderful," praising its complex and flipping flavor profile that balances fruitiness, sweetness, and a touch of sourness.
The review emphasizes the importance of the finishing process in adding unique character to the whisky.

Glengoyne La Nerthe Cask Finish is an 11-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, finished in white wine barrels from Chateau La Nerthe.
The whisky showcases a complex flavor profile dominated by fresh fruit, sweetness, and a hint of sourness, with minimal oak influence.
The distillery's history, including its acquisition by Ian McLeod and experimentation with cask finishes, adds depth to the whisky's story.
The use of Chateau La Nerthe casks for finishing connects the whisky to the winemaking tradition of southern Rhône, France.

Whisky Enthusiasts interested in unique cask finishes and the influence of wine casks on whisky flavor.
Collectors looking for whiskies with a story, especially those with a connection to prestigious wine estates.
Beginners may find the complex interplay of flavors challenging but rewarding, offering an educational tasting experience.