Whisky Review: Glasgow 1770 Tokaji Cask Finish Batch 2 (Unpeated)

The Glasgow Distillery Co. has quickly gained a dedicated following and numerous accolades during its relatively short time in the whisky industry. If you’re a fan of high-quality Lowland whisky, their standard bottlings—both peated and unpeated—are a must-try. However, if you’re an adventurous whisky enthusiast who enjoys exploring the influence of unique cask finishes, the Tokaji Finish is a standout choice. This expression brims with rich, tropical fruit notes that will captivate your palate and offer something truly unique.

What Is Tokaji?

Tokaji (or Tokay) is a renowned sweet dessert wine produced in Hungary and Slovakia. While it can be crafted from several grape varieties, Furmint grapes dominate production, accounting for around 60%. The vineyards’ sun-drenched locations result in highly concentrated sugars within the grapes. Interestingly, the Furmint grape also develops a second skin, preventing it from bursting and allowing the formation of “noble rot” (Botrytis cinerea), a grey mold that enhances the wine’s sweetness and complexity. This process is similar to the production of other famed dessert wines like Sauternes and Cotnari.

The Best Ways to Enjoy the Glasgow 1770 Tokaji Finish

The Glasgow 1770 Tokaji Finish is layered and complex, with plenty to discover in every sip. To fully appreciate its depth, try adding a small drop of water and allowing it to breathe in the glass. High-strength single malts with dessert wine finishes often benefit from a little oxygenation, which helps them open up and reveal their full spectrum of flavors. While this whisky is delightful neat, a touch of water can elevate its sweeter, fruit-forward notes, making it shine even more beautifully.

Scotch

Whisky Review: Glasgow 1770 Tokaji Cask Finish Batch 2 (Unpeated)

$65

OVERALL
RATING

The Glasgow 1770 Tokaji Finish is layered and complex, with plenty to discover in every sip, especially with a drop of water.

by Pete "Jeff Whisky" Jeffery
December 1, 2024

Jeff, a UK-based whisky reviewer with a lighthearted approach.

Tasting Notes:

About:

One of three Glasgow Distillery Co.’s latest small batch series for 2024 is unpeated at 54.8% ABV which has had a second maturation of three years and six months in Hungarian Tokaji casks. A combination from over four casks this is a limited release with only 1,300 bottles.

Appearance:

An fully natural orange tinted amber colour with a silky texture in the glass leaving short tears when swirled.

Nose:

Quite a strong wood forward note at the front which dominates plenty of sweet notes like liquorice and marzipan. While an unpeated spirit there seems to be hints of overly burnt chestnuts mixed with dried mango and oranges. Some more delicate notes can be found amongst the heavier flavors with cherry and rose lokum (Turkish Delight).

Palate:

The first sip is very heavy with the high abv overpowers the mouth taking a few moments to subside for the other notes to come through. A huge mix of fruits such as apricots, plums and zesty kiwi fruit. After a while it becomes more viscose with a honey like texture contrasting with sharp green grapes and lemonade flavors.

Finish:

A remarkably long sweet finish reminiscent of grilled pineapple which has been caramelized on a log fire.

Comments:

While a highly unique and interesting release, overall the notes feel jumbled with the cask influence overpowering the natural Glasgow Distillery spirit. This is a whisky that takes time in the glass and drop of water to open up further.

Who Will Enjoy the Glasgow 1770 Tokaji Finish?

Pete "Jeff Whisky" Jeffery

Based in the South West of the UK, Jeff brings an irreverent and laid-back approach to whisky reviewing, dispelling any notions of snobbery surrounding the spirit. With a genuine enthusiasm for exceptional drams, he often embraces the whimsical side of whisky. Jeff's tongue-in-cheek whisky content has earned him recognition in the Malt Whisky Yearbook, and he has contributed articles and reviews to numerous whisky platforms.

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