The Toshan Man

Apfelstrüdel

It has been almost two years since the Auchentoshan Virgin Oak was introduced. Not too long ago the second batch was released. You will understand that I have no other option than to try this one as well. Do I hear some nasty people whispering ‘someone has to’? Very funny. I gladly sacrifice myself (and put a glass of the first batch next to it for comparison).

It takes a while for the nose to open up. The first thing I smell is grainy wood. Then apfelstrüdel and chocolate with praline filling follow. Peel of recently peeled mandarin. Candied orange rind. Cinnamon and some nutmeg. Becomes beautifully creamy. It even gets something bourbonny. Rye bread and vanilla ice-cream. Good nose.

Creamy body. Nice, mildly pricky arrival. The spices speak immediately. Nutmeg, pepper, candied ginger. A light bitterness from the wood. Becomes quite fruity. Everything from the nose, but in twofold. Add some pineapple from a can. A slice of kiwi. The chocolate from the nose is gone, though. Good stuff.

The finish is medium long on bittersweet touches and loads of warming spices.