Last Updated on: 26th April 2024, 09:33 pm
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 a comprehensive exploration of the Auchentoshan 12 in my thorough review that addresses all your pertinent inquiries!
Written by: J Highland
Auchentoshan 12: Effortlessly Smooth
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Auchentoshan 12 delivers on its promise of being a smooth and easy-to-sip Scotch whisky, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
A Gentle Introduction to Single Malts
This expression stands out for its smoothness, lacking any harshness, smoke, or peat. This makes it a great choice for those new to single malts or seeking a gentle drinking experience.
A Touch One-Dimensional?
While its smoothness is undeniable, Auchentoshan might lack the complex flavors or bold character some drinkers prefer. It leans more towards being straightforward and easygoing.
Considering Value
The price point might not be the most attractive compared to other smooth whiskies like Glenlivet 12 or Glenfiddich 12, which can be found at a more affordable price.
The Verdict: Easy Sipping, But Explore Alternatives
Auchentoshan is a great choice for a relaxed and easy-drinking whisky experience. However, for those seeking a more distinctive flavor profile or a better value, exploring other options might be worthwhile.
- Related: Best 12 Year Single Malt Scotch Whiskies
- Learn more: Auchentoshan 12 Website
What’s unique about it?
- Auchentoshan offers an exceptionally smooth, smoke-free, and approachable profile.
- Notably, it undergoes triple distillation, setting it apart from the more common double distillation of Scotch Whisky, a method often associated with Irish whiskey.
How does it taste?
- Nose: Vanilla, floral, cough syrup
- Palate: Vanilla, citrus, ripe fruit
- Finish: Medium, oak spice, citrus
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
- Similar to: Glenkinchie
As I take in the aroma, I’m met with a gentle softness, where vibrant flowers and a subtle undertone reminiscent of cough syrup follow a delicate hint of vanilla.
Transitioning to the palate, Auchentoshan doesn’t disappoint in terms of the body, offering a slightly denser sensation.
Flavor-wise, the experience is characterized by smoothness and sweetness, featuring notes of vanilla, along with the essence of orange peel and ripe fruit.
The finish maintains a respectable duration, accompanied by introduction of oak spice.
However, this spice element remains moderate and is accompanied by a recurrence of the orange note, delivering a well-rounded closing impression.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it smoky?
- Auchentoshan 12 scores a ZERO on a smoke and peat scale from 1 to 5, indicating no smoky or peaty notes.
How does it rank?
- Auchentoshan 12 is on par with Glenlivet 12 and Glenfiddich 12 in scoring (68 points), but falls behind Glenmorangie Lasanta (73 points) and Bunnahabhain 12 (75 points).
Alternatives
- Glenmorangie Lasanta: Offers a smoother, more flavorful experience at a similar price.
- Bunnahabhain 12: A bit more complex and nuanced, for those willing to pay slightly more.
Awards & Accolades
- 2014: Silver at the International Spirits Challenge.
- 2014: Silver Outstanding at the International Wine & Spirits Competition.
Pricing Guide
- United States: $55
- Canada: $61
- Britain: £40
- Australia: $78
- Ireland: €50
How to drink it?
- Best enjoyed neat, allowing you to appreciate its mild flavors without dilution.
Alcohol content
- Bottled at 80 proof (40% ABV).
Aging
- Aged for 12 years, primarily in used bourbon barrels with some aging in ex-sherry casks.
Where is it made?
- Auchentoshan is a Lowland whisky, produced near Glasgow. The distillery has a rich history and is currently owned by Beam Suntory Inc.
Does it expire?
- Whisky does not expire but can change in taste once opened. It is best to consume it once the bottle reaches about 25% remaining to ensure optimal flavor.
How to store it?
- Store the bottle upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to prevent degradation.
How did I review Auchentoshan 12?
I run a pub and a liquor store, granting me extensive access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller.
My evaluations include my insights and feedback from customers and patrons and whiskey expert opinions from Neil Coleman who has been for decades in the liquor business.
I also corroborate my views with online research to ensure accuracy.
Our ratings are determined primarily by four key factors: aroma, taste, finish, and value for money. While we do consider packaging, it is of lesser importance to us, as we prioritize the quality of the liquid inside over the aesthetics of the bottle.
⭐ – Poor, ⭐⭐ – Average, ⭐⭐⭐ – Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Very Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent.
Auchentoshan 12: Specs
| Type of Whisky | Single Malt |
| Age statement | 12 |
| Proof | 80 |
| ABV | 40% |
| Is it good? | Yes |
| Is it top-shelf? | No |
| Does it expire? | No |
| Sweet? | Yes |
| Warm? | No |
| Peaty? | No |
| Good for beginners? | Yes |
| Good for cocktails? | Not the best |
| Good with Coke? | No |
| Calories per shot | 108 |
| Gluten-free | Yes |
| Keto-friendly | Yes |
| Kosher | No |