I have never been a big Auchentoshan fan, and i normally pass on it if i have to choose between any of this lowland single malt and other whiskies. Having said that, this three wood expression really surprised me, with some tasting and aroma notes that i really did not expect from this distillery.
Bottled at 43%abv, deep copper color.
On the nose, pretty appealing. Red fruits: mostly cherries; Bananas. Very clean aroma, maple syrup and chocolate fudge.
On the palate, it is really nice, i found some very interesting new tasting notes in here. Starts with some red fruits, caramel and acid prunes; but then it gives you this amazing flavor of chilli jam, that i don't know if you have tried before, but it is essentially a spicy marmalade. Very good.
Aftertaste is a little simple but feels very balanced and obeys the rythm of the nose and palate. Cinnamon, pepper and some metallic finish. Sweet and spicy.
Overall this was one enjoyable, interesting, spicy dram that felt very different from all other Auchentoshan expressions. If i was in a blind tasting event, i would have never guessed it was from this distillery. Great stuff, my score for it is 89 over 100.