Glengoyne White Oak is a brand-new expression matured exclusively in first fill bourbon and virgin American oak barrels. For a bottling with no age statement, it is nice to see it comes at a generous 48% ABV.
Old bourbon matured Glengoyne can be heavenly, but the distillery is mostly known for its use of sherry casks of course.
Glengoyne White Oak (48%, OB 2024)
Nose: as expected, quite pure, almost a barley eau-de-vie. Shortbread, almonds and hints of vanilla. Then some fresh oak shavings, crisp green apple, lime and unripe pineapple. Light gingery notes and subtle white flowers.
Mouth: a tad over-oaked now, with the virgin wood very much in front row. Some plankish notes, slightly harsh but quickly balanced by lemon candy and candied lemon peels, as well as light caramel and green banana. Then white pepper and ginger add a little heat, along with grainy biscuits.
Finish: medium, on toasted wood, plain malt, caramel and lemon.
Glengoyne does work in bourbon wood. It’s clean and bright, but the wood makes it a bit harsh around the edges. Highball material? Not a must in any way, unless you really want to experience the summery side of this distillery. Check The Whisky Exchange or Master of Malt.