Auchentoshan (Glentoshan) 5 Year Old Pure Malt

Glentoshan? What? Yup. This Pure Malt from the 1970s appeared as Glentoshan on the Italian market. Glen Grant was the most popular malt – and is still very popular – so then-owners of Auchentoshan decided to launch their triple distilled malt with ‘Glen’ in the name. It worked. Glentoshan sold very well. Some cases were recently discovered in an Italian basement and I was able to secure 6 bottles. But would it still be tasty? The screwcap was tight, the tax seal in perfect condition and the fill level was in the upper neck. Very well preserved, I say, so hopes are high.

The first thing that stands out are the sherry notes! Oranges, banana, apricots with a soft spiciness. Some marzipan and marshmallow. Then citrus and a hint of hay arrive. No comparison to the Auchentoshan offerings of today.

The body is quite light. It is sweet with a sour touch. I again am reminded of apricots and oranges and some nuts. Surprisingly round, though. This makes me happy.

The finish is short and very soft.

A ‘little dram’ from a gone era, but still better than the current entry level malt from my favorite Lowlander.

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