Auchentoshan distillery

Introduction to Auchentoshan

A distillery with passion for craftsmanship

Auchentoshan is a Lowland Scottish distillery that stands as a unique gem in the whisky landscape, renowned for being one of the few distilleries in Scotland to practice triple distillation for all its whisky. Located just outside Glasgow on the banks of the River Clyde, Auchentoshan creates exceptionally smooth and delicate single malts that perfectly represent the elegance of Lowland whiskies.

The name “Auchentoshan” (pronounced ‘ock-un-tosh-un’) comes from Gaelic meaning “corner of the field,” reflecting its picturesque setting in the Scottish countryside.

Why we have a soft spot for Auchentoshan

At Vault of Spirits, we appreciate distilleries that maintain their distinctive character while honoring traditional craftsmanship. Auchentoshan stands out with its unique triple distillation process, which is more commonly found in Irish whiskey production than Scottish.

This method creates an exceptionally refined spirit with a light, complex character that makes it both accessible to newcomers and intriguing for seasoned connoisseurs. We’re particularly drawn to how Auchentoshan balances tradition with innovation, especially through their experimental wood management program.

The History behind Auchentoshan

Origin and development

Auchentoshan Distillery was established in 1823, though there’s evidence suggesting illegal distillation was taking place at the site prior to its official founding. Located in the Lowlands region near Glasgow, it has survived tumultuous times including the industrial revolution and significant urban development in its surroundings.

Perhaps most notably, during World War II, the distillery suffered a direct hit from German bombers during the Clydebank Blitz of 1941. One of the warehouses was destroyed, sending burning whisky flowing down to the River Clyde. Despite this dramatic setback, the distillery was rebuilt and continues to produce exceptional whisky to this day.

The people behind

Auchentoshan is currently owned by Beam Suntory, but maintains its distinct identity under the guidance of dedicated master distillers who honor its unique triple distillation heritage. The distillery team takes great pride in maintaining traditional methods while implementing modern quality control standards.

Each expression crafted at Auchentoshan reflects the dedication of generations of distillers who have refined and perfected their approach to creating the “breakfast whisky” – a nickname earned for its gentle, approachable character.

The Craft and Production

From raw material to finished product

Auchentoshan’s production begins with carefully selected malted barley, which undergoes a longer than average fermentation period of around 60 hours. This extended fermentation helps develop the fruity, estery notes that are signature to the distillery’s character.

What truly sets Auchentoshan apart is its commitment to triple distillation. While most Scottish distilleries distill their spirit twice, Auchentoshan passes its whisky through three copper pot stills. This creates an exceptionally pure and refined new make spirit with a higher alcohol content (typically around 81% ABV compared to the usual 70%).

This process strips away heavier compounds and results in Auchentoshan’s characteristic light, delicate, and clean profile before it even touches a cask.

Maturation and aging

Auchentoshan employs a diverse range of casks for maturation, including traditional ex-bourbon barrels, sherry butts, and various wine casks. The distillery’s wood management program is particularly innovative, with special releases featuring maturation in barrels that previously held Bordeaux wine, German Weißbier, and even Limousin oak.

The Lowland climate, with its more moderate temperature variations compared to the Highlands, contributes to a consistent and measured maturation process. This results in whiskies that maintain their delicate character while still developing complexity through careful cask selection.

Selected Products from Auchentoshan

Auchentoshan 12 Year Old – An introduction to the house style

This expression serves as an excellent entry point to understand the distillery’s character. Matured exclusively in ex-bourbon and sherry casks, it offers notes of creamy vanilla, citrus zest, and gentle toasted almonds. The triple distillation imparts a remarkably smooth mouthfeel that makes it particularly approachable for newcomers to single malts.

Auchentoshan Three Wood – An experience for connoisseurs

A more complex offering from the distillery that showcases their skill with multiple cask types. Matured in bourbon barrels before being finished in Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, this expression delivers rich dried fruit notes, dark chocolate, and spiced orange. Expect a velvety texture and a complex, nutty finish – a bottle for those who appreciate depth and nuance in their dram.

Visit the Distillery

Tours and tastings

Auchentoshan offers several immersive tour experiences that take visitors through their unique triple distillation process. Located just 8 miles from Glasgow city center, it’s one of Scotland’s most accessible distilleries.

The tasting sessions typically include a range of expressions that showcase Auchentoshan’s versatility, from their core range to limited editions. The distillery also offers special masterclasses where visitors can create their own custom blend from various cask samples.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Auchentoshan?

Auchentoshan is a Lowland single malt Scotch whisky distillery that produces whisky using a unique triple distillation method. It focuses on creating refined, delicate spirits that maintain complexity and character despite their inherent lightness. Their approach combines centuries-old Scottish distilling traditions with an uncommon distillation method more typically associated with Irish whiskey.

Where is Auchentoshan located?

The distillery is located in Clydebank, just outside Glasgow in Scotland’s Lowlands region. Positioned on the banks of the River Clyde, its location influences both its water source and the moderate climate that affects maturation.

What characterizes Auchentoshan?

Auchentoshan is particularly known for its unique triple distillation process, which creates an exceptionally smooth and delicate spirit. The distillery’s expressions typically feature bright citrus notes, subtle nuttiness, and a clean, refined character. Their experimental wood management program, producing special editions with unique cask finishes, also sets them apart in the whisky world.

Where can I buy whisky from Auchentoshan?

You can find selected bottles from Auchentoshan at Vault of Spirits. We carefully curate the best expressions – from core range offerings to special limited releases – ensuring you get access to this distinctive Lowland distillery’s finest creations.