For Batch Three of The GlenAllachie Virgin Oak Series, the whisky was first matured in American Oak (Quercus Alba) Ex-Bourbon Barrels. To add a delicate and distinctive twist, the whisky then underwent additional maturation for approximately 18 months in specially selected virgin oak casks. The subtle flavour differences in this series are led by a variety of influences: the oak species, the local terroir and the period of natural air drying, along with the toasting, charring and coopering of the casks. Each of these reacts uniquely with the GlenAllachie spirit, adding superb texture, depth and variety.
This golden malt obtains its indulgently sweet characteristics from maturation in casks crafted from Sessile Oak (Quercus Petraea), which grows in forests along the Atlantic coast of Scotland. Seldomly used for whisky maturation, Scottish Oak is not only rare and costly but is incredibly challenging to work with at all stages of production; growing, milling and coopering. Prior to hosting our honeyed whisky, the wood was air dried for 36 months before being toasted and charred to a medium level to encourage optimum interaction between oak and spirit. Despite presenting difficulties, this desirable oak imparts luxurious notes of blonde chocolate, with hints of zesty orange and smooth toffee to offer a truly unique drinking experience.
TASTING NOTES
COLOUR: Golden Sunset.
NOSE: Bursting with baked oats, butterscotch and toffee, with notes of cinnamon, gingersnaps and heather honey.
TASTE: Lashings of heather honey, orchard fruits and lemon zest, followed by white chocolate, cinnamon and ginger, with toffee and butterscotch on the finish.