Recently, Deanston has unveiled a rare and remarkable creation, the Virgin Oak Cask Strength single malt, an embodiment of their commitment to crafting exceptional spirits.
Established in 1966, Deanston boasts a unique history, originating as a cotton mill almost two centuries prior. Nestled along the picturesque River Teith, the distillery not only utilizes the river as a pristine water source but ingeniously harnesses its power to run turbines, generating ample energy to sustain the entire operation and contribute surplus power to the UK's National Grid.
Deanston's hallmark lies in the production of un-peated whiskies, renowned for their nuanced palate featuring delightful notes of honey and citrus. The distillery's core range includes 12- and 18-year-old single malts, along with a non-age-statement expression that undergoes a fascinating finishing process in virgin oak casks for up to a year.
The latest addition to Deanston's repertoire, the Virgin Oak Cask Strength, emerges as a more robust iteration of its predecessor. Clocking in at a formidable 58.5% alcohol by volume (ABV) or 117 proof, this single malt was initially matured in ex-bourbon barrels before undergoing a secondary maturation for a year in virgin American oak casks from Kentucky's esteemed Kelvin Cooperage. Unlike the convention of aging Scotch in used barrels, the use of virgin oak infuses the liquid with a burst of flavor, featuring prominent notes of oak, vanilla, gentle smoke, and stone fruit. Notably, this expression remains undiluted before bottling, intensifying the sensory experience for the discerning palate.
Master blender Julieann Fernandez, the creative force behind this release, drew inspiration from the iconic former weaving sheds at Deanston. These sheds, steeped in history, proved to be the ideal environment for maturing whisky, allowing for the direct nosing and tasting of the Virgin Oak spirit from the cask. Fernandez highlights the presence of the distillery's characteristic waxy quality, which beautifully coats the mouth. The cask strength presentation enables the bold and complex flavors of Virgin Oak to shine, creating a perfectly balanced and captivating sensory journey.
Deanston Virgin Oak Cask Strength stands proudly as a non-chill filtered, natural-hued whisky. The expression, available for purchase on ReserveBar, joins the ranks of other notable Deanston whiskies, including the recently acclaimed 15 Year Old Tequila Cask Finish.
Direct from the cask, Batch #1 of Deanston Virgin Oak Cask Strength promises an extraordinary experience, delivering intense and robust flavors of warm spice, candied fruit, crisp green apple, and a refreshing twist of citrus. At 58.8% ABV, this release encapsulates Deanston's distinctive character and house style, ensuring an authentic and unadulterated representation of their craftsmanship.
In the glass, expect an olfactory journey through intense robust flavors of wood spice, creamy custard, and candied fruit. The palate reveals a harmonious blend of butterscotch, heather honey, crisp green apple, and the signature waxy character that defines Deanston's whiskies. The finish unfolds with warm spice, a hint of honey, and a delightful twist of citrus, leaving a lasting impression on the connoisseur's discerning palate.
Deanston Virgin Oak Cask Strength, a masterpiece born from tradition and innovation, invites whisky enthusiasts to savor the rich heritage and meticulous craftsmanship that define this Highland gem.
Shop Deanston Whisky
- Master of Malt (UK/WW)
- The Whisky Exchange (UK/WW)
- Drizly (US)
- ReserveBar (US)
- Mash & Grape (US)
- Wine.com (US)
About Deanston Distillery
Deanston Distillery, situated along the banks of the River Teith near the town of Doune in the southern Highlands of Scotland, is known for its rich history and unique approach to whisky production. Originally established in 1785 as a cotton mill, the site was later converted into a distillery in 1966 by James Fleming. The distillery's location, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and close to the historic Doune Castle, adds to its charm and appeal.
Deanston distinguishes itself by its commitment to traditional craftsmanship and authenticity. The distillery's single malt Scotch whiskies are crafted using only Scottish-grown barley and water from the River Teith. This emphasis on local ingredients and a natural water source contributes to the distinct character of Deanston whiskies.
One of the notable features of Deanston's production process is its decision to eschew modern automation. The distillery proudly employs a manual approach to crafting its whiskies, including traditional floor malting where the barley is turned by hand. This dedication to hands-on craftsmanship is reflected in the quality and character of Deanston's expressions.
Deanston's core range includes a variety of expressions, each showcasing the distillery's commitment to producing high-quality Scotch whisky. The Deanston 12 Year Old, for example, is often praised for its balance of honeyed sweetness, fruity notes, and a hint of spice. The maturation of Deanston whiskies takes place in a mix of oak casks, allowing for a nuanced and well-developed flavor profile.
Visitors to Deanston Distillery have the opportunity to take guided tours, exploring the historic premises, learning about the whisky-making process, and enjoying tastings of Deanston's diverse expressions. The distillery's visitor center provides an inviting space for whisky enthusiasts to delve into the heritage and craftsmanship behind Deanston whiskies, making it a worthwhile destination for those seeking an authentic Scottish whisky experience.
