Auchentoshan Classic Scotch – Review

Auchentoshan Classic Single Malt Scotch Whisky

80 Proof

Price Point: $30 – $40 for 750 ML

Distiller: Auchentoshan Distillery

Background

Auchentoshan (pronounced Aw-khen-tosh-an, according to Wikipedia) Classic is the entry-level expression from a Lowland distillery known for its unique triple-distillation process.  This technique is commonplace in Ireland, but very rare in Scotland.  My first thought when seeing “triple-distilled” on a label, is that most of the complex flavors have been sucked out, creating a too-smooth, boring whisky.  Auchentoshan isn’t shy about marketing how “gentle” and “smooth” their whisky is, but they also talk about how flavorful it is.  Let’s see whether my instincts or their marketing wins this battle.

Review

This whisky is golden in the glass; almost like a Chardonnay in color and opacity.  Auchentoshan is a fruity whisky if I’ve ever smelled one before.  Lots of apples and pears, with subtle pineapple.  There’s also a hint of malt and a dash of cinnamon spice on the nose.

This is a light and tasty whisky with a little more citrus fruits (oranges and grapefruit) on the tongue.  Auchentoshan is slightly spicy bringing back that cinnamon mentioned earlier, with just a touch of malt.  This is quite tasty for a whisky that was triple-distilled in the same vein as its Irish counterparts.

There’s definitely more malt on the finish.  Also existent is a slightly unpleasant, bitter taste – tough to describe.  This is my only major complaint with Auchentoshan.

Rating & Recommendations

For an entry-level whisky, Auchentoshan Classic is surprisingly good, earning an 84 out of 100.

For 80 proof, there’s a lot going on here.  This is a good value whisky, and I will definitely be looking to try the next level up.

-Ryan