Auchentoshan 18 Years is matured in 100% American oak casks. The latest bottle design also has a “limited release” label, not sure how limited it really is.
Auchentoshan 18 yo
(43%, OB +/- 2018)
Auchentoshan 18 yoNose: toffee apples and hints of banana, mixed with toasty and fragrant (newish) oak. Whiffs of bubblegum and vanilla marshmallows. Honey. A little pipe tobacco and grassy notes as well. Crystallised ginger.
Mouth: a light fruitiness of oranges and sweetened lemon juice. Brown sugar and barley sweetness. Later more oak spices (clove, ginger) and roasted nutty notes (almonds, chestnut).
Finish: medium long, very malty, with hints of the bourbon wood and floral touches.
A solid Auchentoshan, sweet with quite some wood influence. Not bad, but not hitting the perfect balance and a little expensive. Available from Master of Malt or TWE for instance.
Score: 82/100