Discover the extraordinary Auchentoshan Three Wood Single Malt Scotch Whisky, a Lowland masterpiece that showcases its signature triple distillation process for a velvety smooth character. This award-winning whisky is matured in three distinct cask types—American Bourbon, Spanish Oloroso Sherry, and Pedro Xim√©nez Sherry—imparting layers of richness and complexity. With its deep amber hue, it tantalizes the senses with aromas of creamy toffee, blackcurrant, and citrus. On the palate, expect indulgent notes of dark chocolate, hazelnut, syrupy fruits, and a butterscotch sweetness, culminating in a long-lasting, oaky finish that's both fresh and fruity. Perfect for sipping neat or elevating your favorite cocktails, Auchentoshan Three Wood is a must-try for whisky connoisseurs seeking a refined yet approachable experience.
Process & Profile
At the heart of Auchentoshan's character is its unique triple distillation process, which distinguishes it from other Scotch whiskies. This meticulous method creates a spirit that is exceptionally smooth and delicate, with a high alcohol by volume (around 81% before maturation). The Three Wood expression matures in three cask types: American bourbon, Spanish Oloroso sherry, and Pedro Ximénez sherry. Each cask contributes its unique attributes, resulting in a whisky that is rich, complex, and layered with flavor.
Tasting Notes
Auchentoshan Three Wood captivates with its deep and nuanced flavors:
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Color: Rich golden bronze or tawny.
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Aroma: Notes of blackcurrant, brown sugar, orange, plum, and raisins, underpinned by hints of creamy toffee and a touch of spice.
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Palate: A harmonious blend of dark chocolate, sherry, berries, and hazelnut, complemented by syrupy, butterscotch sweetness and subtle cinnamon and lemon undertones.
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Finish: Long, fresh, and fruity with lingering oaky sweetness and a hint of spiced chocolate and hazelnuts.
What Makes It Special
Auchentoshan Three Wood stands out in several ways:
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Triple Distillation: Auchentoshan's triple distilling method ensures a light, clean spirit, making it smoother than many double-distilled single malts.
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Cask Expertise: The interplay between bourbon, Oloroso sherry, and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks imparts layers of toffee, fruit, and deeply satisfying sherry richness.
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Lowland Heritage: Representing the Lowland whisky tradition, it combines a delicate profile with bold, rich flavors, appealing to both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
How to Enjoy
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Neat or On the Rocks: Best enjoyed as is, to savor its complexity.
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With Food Pairings: Perfect alongside dishes like thinly sliced steak, mushrooms, or dark chocolate desserts for a gourmet experience.
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In Cocktails: For a creative twist, use it in whisky cocktails like an Old Fashioned to highlight its sweet and sherry-driven notes.
Indulge in the rich heritage and flavor of Auchentoshan Three Wood, a whisky that redefines luxury and craftsmanship in every sip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the unique feature of Auchentoshan Three Wood?
Auchentoshan Three Wood is distinctive because it undergoes triple distillation and is matured in three types of casks: American Bourbon, Spanish Oloroso Sherry, and Pedro Ximénez Sherry casks. This process enhances its smoothness and imparts complex layers of flavors, including toffee, sherry, and oak notes.
What flavors and aromas can I expect from Auchentoshan Three Wood?
This whisky has a rich and complex flavor profile that includes toffee, sherry, chocolate, and hints of butterscotch. Aromas of brown sugar, citrus, and nuts combine with floral and herbal undertones for a well-rounded sensory experience.
What makes Auchentoshan's distillation process different?
Auchentoshan stands out as the only distillery in Scotland that triple distills all its whisky, raising the alcohol content to around 81% ABV during distillation. This unique process removes impurities and creates a light, smooth whisky with refined flavors.
How should I enjoy Auchentoshan Three Wood?
This whisky is versatile and can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as part of a cocktail. It pairs particularly well in drinks like an Old Fashioned or Auchentoshan & Ale but is equally delightful as a sipping whisky.
What is the origin of Auchentoshan Three Wood?
Auchentoshan is one of the few remaining Lowland distilleries in Scotland. The name “Auchentoshan” means "corner of the field" in Gaelic. The distillery was established in 1823, and the Three Wood expression was introduced in 2002, becoming one of its flagship products.
Is Auchentoshan Three Wood peated?
No, Auchentoshan Three Wood is unpeated, giving it a smooth, delicate, and approachable profile without the smoky qualities found in some Scotch whiskies.
How long is Auchentoshan Three Wood aged?
The whisky spends its initial maturation period in Bourbon casks, followed by finishing stages in Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez Sherry casks. While there is no official age statement, these cask transitions contribute to its rich and layered character.
What is the alcohol by volume (ABV) of Auchentoshan Three Wood?
Auchentoshan Three Wood has an ABV of 43%, making it a balanced option for sipping or mixing.
What kind of whisky is Auchentoshan Three Wood?
It is a single malt Scotch whisky, meaning it is made exclusively from malted barley and distilled at a single distillery—in this case, Auchentoshan in Scotland's Lowland region.