Glenglassaugh Sandend is a non-age-statement Highland single malt whisky that pays tribute to the rugged coastline around Portsoy and the nearby Sandend Beach. Inspired by its maritime surroundings, this expression combines fresh, fruity notes with a subtle saline character, reflecting the influence of the sea air and coastal climate.
About the Producer
Glenglassaugh Distillery was originally founded in 1875 near Portsoy on Scotland’s Moray Firth coast. After a period of closure, it was revived in 2008 by a group of dedicated whisky enthusiasts. Since its reopening, Glenglassaugh has focused on crafting whiskies that capture the essence of its coastal environment—sea breezes, salt-kissed air, and the cool Highland temperatures. Today, Glenglassaugh remains independently owned, preserving traditional copper pot stills and floor maltings, while embracing modern practices that highlight the distillery’s unique seaside terroir.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Pale straw gold with faint greenish highlights, evoking the rippling sea under sunlight.
Nose: Bright and coastal—initial aromas of sea spray and fresh salt air mingle with green apple, pear, and citrus zest (grapefruit and lemon). Beneath these, gentle notes of barley malt, vanilla, and a hint of freshly baked oat cake emerge.
Palate: Light to medium-bodied, offering crisp green apple and ripe pear alongside tropical fruit hints of pineapple and mango. A pronounced mineral edge reminiscent of wet sand transitions into a delicate vanilla sweetness from the bourbon casks. Subtle coastal herbs and a whisper of brine underline the core fruit character.
Finish: Clean and moderately long, featuring a gentle saline whisper, light fruit sweetness, and a faint oak dryness reminiscent of wet driftwood.
Production and Maturation
Distillation: Glenglassaugh relies on traditional copper pot stills and a relatively slow distillation rate to preserve delicate, coastal-inspired flavors.
Cask Regimen: Sandend is matured exclusively in selected ex-bourbon American oak barrels. The bourbon casks contribute notes of vanilla, light caramel, and a soft malt sweetness.
Aging Environment: The proximity to the Moray Firth means warehouse conditions are heavily influenced by salt-laden sea air and shifting temperatures. Over time, this maritime climate fosters a steady, gentle interaction between the whisky and the oak, lending Sandend its characteristic coastal complexity.
Serving Suggestions
Neat or with Water: Best enjoyed neat to appreciate the nuanced interplay of fruit and saline notes. A few drops of still water can coax forward additional citrus and tropical fruit aromas.
Glassware and Temperature: Serve at around 18 °C in a tulip-shaped glass (e.g., a Glencairn) to concentrate the subtle seaside aromas.
Food Pairings: Complements light seafood dishes such as steamed mussels or grilled sardines, allowing the whisky’s maritime character to shine. It also pairs well with fresh goat cheese or a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
Glenglassaugh Sandend captures the spirit of Scotland’s northeast coast—a refreshing, ocean-kissed single malt with notes of orchard fruit, gentle oak, and a soft, briny breeze. It’s an inviting choice for anyone seeking a whisky with clear maritime influence and a bright, approachable profile.
