The Toshan Man

Easy, but boring

The oldest independent bottler in Scotland is probably William Cadenhead Ltd. A few years ago, they introduced to the Duthies range. Initially only 6 single malts were represented: Auchentoshan 19 yo, Caol Ila 13 yo, Cragganmore 15 yo, Glen Grant 13yo sherry, Glen Scotia 17yo en Mortlach 16yo sherry. But due to the large amount of casks they had access to, as well as the relative succes of the range (especially in Germany), Cadenhead decided to expand the range.

I'm now tasting the 16 Year Old, matured on ex-bourbon barrel. On the nose, I'm immediately aware of the typical Auchentoshan perfume: sweet barley, honey, vanilla, young apples and some crème brulée. Very clean with a almost impercebtible sour touch. Not very complex.

On the palate, he's quite delicate though a touch hot (despite the relatively low ABV). Slightly creamy and sweet, but very little complexity.

The finish is dry and medium in length.

This is an 'easy' Auchentoshan. Nice balance between the sweet cereal, honey and something spicy, but not complex enough to be really interesting. A rather boring Toshan, although I don't like to admit it, being a Toshan Man...