The Toshan Man

Light Lowland

La Maison du Whisky, the reputable retailer with HQ in Paris, launched a special series named The Ten in 2011. They aimed at whisky novices trying to explain the different whisky styles via ten different bottles. The range consists of these whiskies:

00 – Single Grain (Cameronbridge 2003)
01 – Light Lowland (Auchentoshan 2003)
02 – Light Speyside (Aultmore 2005)
03 – Light Highland (Clynelish 2004)
04 – Medium Speyside (Longmorn 2002)
05 – Medium Sherry (Benrinnes 2004)
06 – Medium Highland Peat (Ardmore 2003)
07 – Medium Islay Peat (Bowmore 2003)
08 – First Fill Sherry (Tamdhu 2004)
09 – Heavy Islay Peat (Laphroaig 2000) 

All whiskies come from Signatory stocks. I own only one bottle, the number one, Light Lowland, an 8 Year Old Auchentoshan from 2003.

Ah, this is a classic Auchentoshan nose! Delicate, fresh, floral, sugared citrus peel, slice of pineapple, apples, mild on ginger. Soft and inviting. Make no mistake, for the aficionado (me!) this is very nice. For the experienced imbiber this may be a bit light and hence (although incorrectly) considered bland.

On the palate, it is a different story, unfortunately. Too light, too soft and not enough flavour. Citrus, apple skins and mild vanilla with soft spices (ginger and a pinch of pepper), but not enough body. On the palate, it explains the name Light Lowland. Pity.

The finish is sweet and medium long. At the death it offers a little bit of soft pepper.

This Light Lowland will lighten up quite a few summer nights before dinner. The nose is very nice, but that is where it ends.