Crafted in Scotland with exceptional attention to detail, Glengoyne 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky offers a delicate balance of flavors and an unpeated profile that sets it apart. Distilled using the slowest methods in Scotland and matured in a combination of sherry and bourbon casks, this Highland malt showcases a natural golden hue and a nose rich with toffee apples, honey, and a touch of citrus. The palate delivers indulgent notes of overripe grapes, creamy vanilla, coconut milk, and subtle oak spices, finishing with a long, oily texture accented by coffee and chocolate undertones. Delightfully smooth and versatile, it's a perfect introduction to the world of fine Scotch whiskies or an elegant choice for seasoned connoisseurs.
Process & Profile
Crafted in the Glengoyne distillery, which uniquely spans the Highland and Lowland regions of Scotland, this whisky benefits from the slowest distillation process in the country. By eschewing peat smoke and using warm air to dry their barley, Glengoyne creates a naturally unpeated, pure, and refined spirit. Matured in a combination of 20% first-fill European sherry oak, 20% first-fill American bourbon oak, and 60% hand-selected refill oak casks, the whisky achieves a rich balance of bold flavors and refreshing citrus notes. Bottled at 43% ABV, it retains its authentic natural color.
Tasting Notes
-
Nose: The aroma is captivating, with notes of toffee apples, honey, lemon zest, and a faint hint of coconut. Additional layers reveal nectarine, dried oak, and subtle baking spices.
-
Palate: A delightful blend of overripe grapes, ginger, vanilla, and shortbread leads to a soft touch of chocolate ice cream and oak spice. It offers a light yet lingering sweetness with a touch of citrus, reminiscent of lemon sherbet or sparkling cider.
-
Finish: Smooth and mid-long, the whisky ends with lingering notes of cinnamon, soft oak, and a delicate trace of sherry richness.
What Makes It Special
-
Highland Meets Lowland: As the only whisky distilled in the Highlands and matured in the Lowlands, it offers a fascinating duality of character.
-
Unpeated Purity: Using air-dried barley, Glengoyne 12 Year Old emphasizes a clean, elegant flavor free from peat influence.
-
Sustainability and Craftsmanship: The distillery practices sustainable production methods and uses only natural ingredients, resulting in a whiskey that is as eco-friendly as it is flavorful.
-
Award-Winning Quality: This single malt has earned recognition, including Gold Medals at the 2020 Scotch Whisky Masters and International Spirits Challenge.
How to Enjoy
-
Neat: Savor it neat to appreciate the full complexity of its toffee sweetness, citrus freshness, and soft oak spiciness.
-
With Water: Add a splash of water to soften the ethanol and let the fruity and spicy notes emerge more delicately.
-
On the Rocks: Served over ice, Glengoyne 12 Year Old transforms into a refreshing drink for warm evenings.
-
Food Pairing: Pair it with rich desserts like apple pie or chocolate mousse to complement its fruity and caramel undertones.
Glengoyne 12 Year Old is the embodiment of Scottish whisky tradition. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this whisky promises a sophisticated and delightful experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of whisky is the Glengoyne 12 Year Old?
The Glengoyne 12 Year Old is a Highland single malt Scotch whisky. It is crafted from 100% malted barley and showcases the distillery's commitment to unpeated, air-dried barley for a smoother profile.
What is the alcohol content of Glengoyne 12 Year Old?
This single malt is bottled at 43% ABV (alcohol by volume), offering a balanced and approachable strength suitable for both enthusiasts and newcomers to Scotch whisky.
How is the Glengoyne 12 Year Old aged?
The whisky is aged for 12 years in a combination of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, with approximately 20% first-fill sherry, 20% first-fill bourbon, and 60% refill casks. This aging process imparts a complex flavor profile with both richness from sherry casks and freshness from bourbon casks.
What are the key tasting notes of Glengoyne 12 Year Old?
- **Nose:** Lemon zest, toffee apples, coconut, caramel, and citrus fruits.
- **Palate:** Notes of toffee, gingerbread, spiced cinnamon, orange, and a fizzy hint reminiscent of lemon sherbet.
- **Finish:** A smooth yet lingering sensation with baking spices, oak, and a touch of dark chocolate.
What makes Glengoyne 12 Year Old unique?
Glengoyne distills its whisky in the Highland region and matures it in the Lowland region across the road. The distillation process is the slowest in Scotland, which enhances the whisky's smoothness and allows the flavors to develop fully. The use of unpeated barley and natural color from the casks adds further distinction to this single malt.
Who produces Glengoyne 12 Year Old?
The Glengoyne Distillery, operated by Ian Macleod Distillers since 1833, produces this whisky. The distillery is known for its picturesque location near Glasgow and its dedication to traditional, sustainable whisky production methods.
What food pairings work well with this whisky?
Glengoyne 12 Year Old pairs beautifully with desserts like apple pie, caramel-based treats, and nut-based chocolates. Its richness and subtle spices also complement mild cheeses or smoked salmon.
What is the price range for Glengoyne 12 Year Old?
This whisky is generally priced in the mid-range tier, around $50–$70, providing excellent value for its complexity and quality.
Is Glengoyne 12 Year Old suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is considered a "gateway" whisky due to its approachable profile, smooth sipping experience, and balanced flavors. It's an excellent choice for those new to single malt Scotch whisky.
Does the Glengoyne 12 Year Old contain artificial coloring or peat?
No, the whisky is free from artificial coloring, deriving its natural color solely from the oak casks. Additionally, the distillery does not use peat in drying its barley, resulting in a flavor profile without smokiness.