Scotch

Scotch Whisky Review: Glenglassaugh 12 Year Old

Located on Scotland’s east coast, situated on the shores of Sandend Bay near the village of Portsoy, the Glenglassaugh Distillery was revived in 2008. Launched in 2023, the Glenglassaugh 12 Year Old is the distillery’s flagship expression.

OVERALL RATING

7
Like Conversation

Tasting Notes

About:

Located on Scotland’s east coast, situated on the shores of Sandend Bay near the village of Portsoy, the Glenglassaugh Distillery was revived in 2008. Launched in 2023, the Glenglassaugh 12 Year Old is the distillery’s flagship expression, drawn from a selection of bourbon, sherry, and red wine casks. Bottled at 45% ABV.


Appearance:
Luminous Gold
Nose:
Opens with fresh coastal maritime notes, balanced by sweet fruits including apricots, peaches, and stewed figs, alongside vanilla, honey, and buttery pastries.
Palate:
Sweet and creamy mouthfeel opens the palate with pistachio, vanilla and figs, giving way to tart morello cherries and plums – some quite astringent red wine tannins. In the background, a little coastal salt.
Finish:
Short to medium, a little oak and vanilla, but it’s the wine tannins which linger. Hints of sea salt in the background.
Comments:
Sweet and creamy, this Glenglassaugh 12 Year Old is an easy drinking whisky and a great introduction to the distillery. I enjoyed the balance between the coastal notes and sweet fruits. Each cask type has clearly contributed to formation of the overall palate and experience, although the wine casks are the most distinctive influence with the tannins and tart fruits.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Mark Bostock

Mark Bostock, an integral part of the Mark Littler LTD UK content writing team since 2019, brings a genuine passion for whisky, especially independent bottlings, to his work. His commitment to expanding his knowledge through attending tasting events and building his own collection enriches his contributions, blending expertise with enthusiasm.

All Posts

Latest On The Whiskey Wash