New Aerstone Scotch Single Malt Line Up Aims For Easy Drinking

Scotch single malt whisky for many Americans can be a complicated segment of the whisk(e)y world to consider, especially for those unfamiliar with the flavors typical of this category. William Grant & Sons is aiming to make it a bit easier to get on board the Scotch train, however, with the recent unveiling of its new Aerstone expressions.

The new Aerstone Scotch single malts, according to those behind them, aim to “help new single malt drinkers navigate flavors easily through clear taste descriptors on the bottle and corresponding packaging.” To that end there are just two bottlings as of now, both 10 year olds that showcase two different styles of whisky. Here’s how this plays out based on information from William Grant & Sons:

• Sea Cask, described as ‘smooth and easy’ on the pack, is a classic Speyside-style single malt with nutty vanilla notes. This whisky develops its character from the time spent aging in warehouses located close to the sea on the Ayrshire coast, giving the whisky a subtle salty note on the finish.
• Land Cask, on the other hand, is described as ‘rich and smoky’ and is a peated single malt heroing the use of highland peat in the malting. This whisky’s flavors are developed in warehouses located further inland, allowing the smoky notes to shine through.

“We have developed two very different and evocative flavor profiles under the one brand, both inspired by the Scottish environment and raw elements where we age our whisky,” said Brian Kinsman, Master Blender at William Grant & Sons, in a prepared statement. “With a 10 year age statement, people can expect a well-rounded single malt whisky with depth of flavors that will intrigue not only new drinkers, but also more experienced single malt enthusiasts.”

Plans call for Land Cask and Sea Cask, both bottled at 40% ABV, to each price around $29. Limited official tasting notes for the two suggest “rich and smoky, with sweet citrus flavors, and an earthy character” and “smooth with nutty vanilla flavors, and salty on the finish,” respectively.