Glenglassaugh – 12 Year Old (45%)

This is a 12 year old Highland single malt from the Glenglassaugh distillery near Portsoy, bottled at 45% ABV. It was matured in a combination of ex-bourbon, sherry and red wine casks. The distillery stands on the North Sea coast, and the whisky is described as coastal in style. Rachel Barrie, the master blender, brings the three cask types together. The nose offers crisp apple and ripe cherry, with sea air, a little seaweed, vanilla and spicy oak. On the palate it is smooth and sweet, with salted caramel, vanilla, figs, sultanas and cherries. The finish is long, with maritime notes, gentle fruit and a touch of caramel.