Auchentoshan American Oak Single Malt Scotch Whisky (40% ABV, 80 proof $39.99) – A non-age stated, unpeated whisky aged in American Oak and clearly aimed at the American Whiskey crossover audience. Light gold in color, there’s a slight amber tinge, showing off its American Oak cask aging. Dry malt is the star of the nose with sugar cookie, vanilla, green apple, light oak spice, and a touch of barnyard hay.
The entry is pretty thin and light with dry malt, vanilla, light oak, and watered-down caramel. A weak and watery midpalate brings forward oak spice and a subtle charred note, but this whisky never really breaks out.
The finish is nothing short of anemic with a little dryness and a little spice. It’s understandable for Scotch whisky makers to try to appeal to American Whiskey fans, but you can’t lure them in with a spirit that’s this dull. 77 points
