Auchentoshan (OCH-en-TOSH-en) Three Wood
Awards: Through my research across multiple whisky sources, I found that Auchentoshan has earned some noteworthy accolades over thers:…2024 World Whiskies Awards-Gold Medal and Best Scotch Lowlands Single Malt, 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition a Gold Medal, 2016 International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC) a Silver Outstanding medal, 2015 December issue of Wine Enthusiast gave it 94 Points.
From: The Auchentoshan Distillery is located in Dalmuir (Dal-Moor), Scotland which is between the city of Glasgow and Loch Lomond, overlooking the River Clyde.
Color: The color is a rich golden brown. According to the distillery and corroborated by my research, a touch of caramel coloring is added to maintain consistency in appearance across batches. This is common in the industry and doesn’t significantly affect the aroma or flavor.
Body-How it feels on your Palate: I mean the mouthfeel, I find it to be medium. It is not too light and not overly heavy, just right as Goldilocks might say.
Proof: Bottle says it is 43% ABV, (alcohol by volume) which is 86 proof. A very balanced strength for sipping neat or with just a drop of water.
Nose: Thanks to Auchentoshan triple distillation it a lighter aroma than many other Scotches. On the nose, I get layers of toffee, a touch of dried fruit, and some subtle spice. These aromas hint that it’s from a multi-cask maturation process.
Palate: On the palate, this whisky opens up beautifully. The flavors remind me of traditional holiday desserts…rich, spiced, and fruit-laden. Think dark cherries, blackcurrants (Like a cross between a blackberry and cranberry-Tart and tangy), fruitcake, and a touch of dark chocolate. It’s rich, but never overbearing.
Peat/Smokey index: No smoke—Auchentoshan doesn’t use peat during the malting process, so there’s no smokiness or “burn” on the palate. I prefer non-smoky Single Malt Scotch and think It’s a great option for those who prefer non-smoky.
Finish: To me the finish is smooth and gently lingers with a warm, fruity character. I especially notice the sherry cask influence in the lingering cherry and subtle wood notes.
Aging: This whisky undergoes triple cask aging in wood casks, with each adding its own layer of complexity…,10 years in bourbon casks, 3 years in Oloroso Sherry casks, 6 months Pedro Ximénez Sherry casks.
Distillery: Based on my research Auchentoshan is classified as a Lowland single malt, The distillery has been producing scotch since 1823. Its hallmark triple distillation process is relatively rare in Scotch and results in a characteristically smooth, delicate spirit with pronounced fruit-forward flavors.
My Thoughts: Auchentoshan remains one of my top choices for a smooth, fruit-forward single malt. It has great color, a pleasant mouthfeel, and bold but balanced flavors. In my experience, it’s enjoyable for seasoned whisky drinkers and also a great gateway for those exploring Scotch without the peat-heavy profile. As always “Beauty is in the eye of the Beholder”
Note product Information for this review -This review is based on my own tastings, insights from friends and whisky shop staff, as well as research from product sites and other reputable whisky resources. While distilleries aim for consistent flavor profiles, variations can occur due to barrel differences, wood type, aging time, and other factors.