Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 12:23 am
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Explore the distinctions between Auchentoshan and Glenkinchie in this detailed comparison to determine which Single Malt aligns better with your preferences!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Auchentoshan vs Glenkinchie: Comparison
Auchentoshan 12: Known for its triple distillation and smooth profile, presenting vanilla, citrus, and a hint of floral sweetness. Easy-drinking, with a medium finish.
Glenkinchie 12: Offers warm aromas of honey and nuts, a rich buttery palate with a balance of sweetness and spice, and a satisfying finish.
Verdict: Each whisky embodies the character of its region, offering distinct profiles. Auchentoshan 12 suits those seeking smoothness and simplicity, while Glenkinchie 12 appeals to those preferring a rich, buttery experience with a classic touch, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Smoothest Single Malts
Unveiling the Smoothness of Auchentoshan 12
- Nose: Vanilla, floral, cough syrup
- Palate: Vanilla, citrus, ripe fruit
- Finish: Medium, oak spice, citrus
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Glenlivet 12
Distinctly Distilled: Auchentoshan 12 stands out for its unique production process, utilizing triple distillation, a technique more commonly found in Irish whiskies. This contributes to its renowned smoothness, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter and more approachable dram. Additionally, the whisky is completely unpeated, ensuring a complete absence of smoky notes.
Soft & Sweet Aromas: The initial aroma of Auchentoshan 12 is soft and gentle, offering delicate notes of vanilla, flowers, and a subtle hint of sweetness reminiscent of cough syrup.
Smooth & Simple Palate: The first sip reveals a pleasant body with a smooth and sweet flavor profile. Vanilla, orange skin, and ripe fruit notes take center stage, creating a straightforward and easy-drinking experience.
Decent Finish: The finish concludes with a decent length, carrying hints of oak spice and lingering orange notes.
Enjoyable Yet Simple: While Auchentoshan 12 delivers a smooth and easy-drinking experience, its flavor profile might be perceived as lacking complexity compared to other options at this price point. Some may find similarities to the Famous Grouse due to the presence of citrus notes.
Key Facts:
- Aged for 12 years in a combination of bourbon barrels and a small portion of ex-sherry casks.
- Established in 1823, Auchentoshan is a Lowland whisky distillery.
- Owned by Morrison Bowmore Distillers, alongside Bowmore.
Overall, Auchentoshan 12 presents a straightforward and pleasant whisky experience, particularly for those seeking a smooth and unpeated dram. However, for individuals seeking a more complex flavor profile, exploring alternative options within the same price range might be worthwhile.
Unveiling the Classic Charm of Glenkinchie 12: A Lowland Gem
- Nose: Honey, barley, almonds, hazelnuts
- Palate: Vanilla, nuts, honey, black pepper
- Finish: Toasted cereal, oak spice
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Glenmorangie 12
Warm & Inviting Aromas: Glenkinchie 12 opens with a warm and inviting aroma, offering pleasing notes of honey, barley, almonds, and hazelnuts. This inviting bouquet hints at the classic character waiting to be discovered.
Rich & Buttery Palate: The first sip reveals a rich and buttery texture, followed by a wave of sweetness reminiscent of vanilla and honey. A gentle peppery note emerges, adding a touch of complexity.
Decent Finish: The finish of Glenkinchie 12 offers a decent length, carrying notes of oak spice and toasted cereal. While not the smoothest, it provides a satisfying bite at the end.
Classic Enjoyment with Options: Glenkinchie 12 delivers a taste profile that embodies the traditions of Lowland whiskies. It provides a satisfying and enjoyable experience, though smoother options might be available within the same price range. Adding a touch of water can help soften the peppery bite and enhance the sweetness, making it an even easier sipper.
Interesting Distillery Facts:
- Glenkinchie boasts only two stills, but they are surprisingly large and fat, producing over 1 million liters of whisky annually.
- Much of this production goes towards Johnnie Walker blends, as both brands are owned by Diageo.
- Founded in 1837 by the Rate Brothers in the Valley of Kinchie Burn, the distillery boasts a long and rich history.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Auchentoshan | $60 |
| Glenkinchie | $75 |