Glenglassaugh 12 Years is a carefully matured Highland single malt whisky, aged for a minimum of 12 years in the distillery’s coastal warehouses. Drawing inspiration from its seaside location, this expression balances fresh herbal notes with gentle oak influence, delivering a smooth, approachable character ideal for both newcomers and seasoned whisky enthusiasts.
About the Producer
Glenglassaugh Distillery, originally founded in 1875 near Portsoy on Scotland’s Moray Firth coast, experienced a revival when reopened in 2008 by a group of passionate whisky aficionados. Since then, the distillery has focused on crafting whiskies that reflect the maritime environment—sea breezes, brine-kissed air, and the distinctive Highland climate. Today, Glenglassaugh remains independently owned, preserving its traditional copper pot stills and floor maltings, while blending time-honored methods with a modern commitment to sustainability and coastal terroir.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Pale gold with faint greenish reflections.
Nose: Fresh and coastal—early aromas of sea spray and brine mingle with orchard fruits (green apple, pear), wild heather, and a touch of honeycomb. A whisper of vanilla emerges beneath.
Palate: Light to medium-bodied, featuring crisp green apple, ripe pear, and a hint of grapefruit zest. Coastal herbs and sweet barley malt lead into subtle oak spice—cinnamon and a gentle cedar note. A thread of saline minerality underpins the fruit.
Finish: Clean, moderately long, and gently warming, with lingering orchard fruit sweetness, a soft brine echo, and a final whisper of oak tannin.
Production and Maturation
Distillation: Glenglassaugh uses traditional copper pot stills with relatively slow distillation rates to preserve delicate, maritime-driven flavors.
Cask Regimen: A combination of ex-bourbon American oak barrels and first-fill sherry butts. The bourbon casks impart vanilla and crisp malt sweetness, while the sherry butts contribute dried fruit notes (fig, raisin) and a gentle nutty complexity.
Aging Environment: The distillery’s proximity to the sea means the warehouses are influenced by salty sea air and temperature fluctuations, encouraging a calm but steady interaction between spirit and oak over 12 years.
Serving Suggestions
Neat or with Water: Best enjoyed neat or with a splash of still water to open up its aromatic layers—especially the coastal and orchard-fruit notes.
Glassware and Temperature: Serve at around 18 °C in a tulip-shaped glass (e.g., Glencairn) to concentrate the subtle seaside aromas.
Food Pairings: Complements lightly seared scallops or oysters on the half shell, where the whisky’s brine character can shine. Also pairs well with fresh green salads dressed lightly or with mild cheeses such as Brie or Camembert.
Glenglassaugh 12 Years captures the essence of its coastal heritage: a bright, bracing Highland malt that combines orchard fruits and gentle oak, underscored by a light saline breeze—an inviting expression for those seeking a whisky with maritime soul.
