Whiskey Review: Auchentoshan American Oak

Dense and complex, there are a lot of different flavors swirling around here. The palate begins with a very pleasant buttery, malty oak hiding a bit of of coconut and clove spice. Finish: The finish is short. It starts with cinnamon, but then the flavors morph into the citrus from the nose: grapefruit, lemon and lime. With Water: More wood in the nose, but that is the extent of anything of note. It is better without. SCORE: 85/80 with water Jim Color: Golden Nose: Aromatic even from the pour. Distinguishable notes of vanilla, marshmallow, banana, and an orangey citrus overlay the ever-present oak. Together, those notes combine to form that distinctive circus peanut aroma. Palate: I don’t want to put too fine a point on it, but it is right there in the name: Oak. It does stand out, but it’s not the only thing present. The palate starts with a peppercorn mélange of earthy spice. It’s got an oily, buttery texture that holds on to a nice malty vanilla flavor. Finish: Compared with the Auchentoshan Three Wood, this finish is quite short, but its brief stay packs a punch. The peppercorn becomes more cinnamon and the citrus from the nose is there but more bitter than sweet. With water: Mostly the same, maybe adding some peachy notes. The palate is diminished but still good. SCORE: 87 / 85 (with water) Usually priced under $40, this Scotch is a must-have. Great, complex flavors and a reasonable price makes it one that you can afford to keep on hand. This is a Scotch that tastes more expensive than it is and is great to share with good company.