The Toshan Man

At last, Mark & Manny present their long awaited third release in this year’s so-called Artist Series, again with a lovely artwork from Nathalie Pien on the label titled ‘Sunlight’. And that is very apt indeed, for this is a wonderfully summery Auchentoshan from 1998 that has spent a beauty sleep on a bourbon cask for no less than 21 years. It even looks like liquid sunshine! It’s the first Lowland single malt that MMM has released. Again, as MMM is wont to do, it is limited to only 50 bottles.

Sweet malt, freshly cut grass, lime juice, vanilla, wine gums, pineapple cubes and a bouquet of wild heather flowers. The nose truly is summer in the glass! Fresh and lively, yet mature with lovely, sweet curves. Manny nods appreciatively, while Mark’s smile reaches from ear to ear.

Both body and strength are good. Nice mouth feel and barely a prickle from the alcohol (forget water), but immediately quite feisty on some pepper and liquorice, a mild sweet and sour note from grapefruit and some white oak. If you are expecting the typical, delicate character of this Lowland, you’ll be surprised. This one has quite the cojones on the palate. Powerful and outspoken, but with the unmistakable DNA of Auchentoshan.

The finish is medium long and evolves from sweet and sour agrums towards vanilla and lemongrass.

Outstanding aperitif. This makes us very happy – well, actually, Mark is doing his trademarked #happydance), for this Auchentoshan can be enjoyed through what’s left of the summer.