Prepare to embark on a sensory journey as The Glasgow Distillery unveils its latest masterpiece – the Glasgow 1770 Small Batch Series. This new release is a testament to the distillery's commitment to innovation and exploration, as it introduces a trio of limited-edition expressions that have undergone a captivating finishing process in Cognac, Tokaji, and Innis & Gunn Golden Beer casks.
This exciting series represents a continuation of The Glasgow Distillery's exploration into the world of wine and beer cask finishes, building upon the success of previous small-batch releases within the Glasgow 1770 range. As enthusiasts of whisky experimentation, they have once again pushed the boundaries to deliver a remarkable trio of expressions.
Mike Hayward, co-founder of The Glasgow Distillery, expressed their enthusiasm for this project, saying, "We're in a privileged position at The Glasgow Distillery as we produce three different styles of single malt whisky – unpeated, peated, and triple distilled. Our previous forays into Cognac, Tokaji, and Golden Beer cask finishes were so popular that we decided to experiment further using these different styles."
Let's delve into the intricacies of these exceptional releases:
Glasgow 1770 Triple Distilled Cognac Cask Finish (Batch 01) – 52% ABV
This enchanting expression spent over five years maturing in ex-Bourbon casks for just under three years, followed by a finishing period of two and a half years in French Cognac puncheon casks. This unique aging process enhanced the "apple and pear" notes that are hallmarks of The Glasgow Distillery's triple distilled whisky. The result is a wonderfully smooth and elegant single malt whisky, brimming with tropical and fresh citrus fruit flavors.
NOSE
Expect aromas of vibrant orchard fruits, crisp green apples, and creamy poached pear on the nose, as well as a faint floral undertone.
PALATE
The flavor is somewhat fruity throughout, with notes of buttery shortbread, rich vanilla ice cream, and citrus fruits. The palate is smooth and delicate.
FINISH
With aromas of tropical fruits, fresh ginger, toffee, and a zesty citrus spice, the finish is lengthy and pleasant.
Glasgow 1770 Peated Tokaji Cask Finish (Batch 01) – 53.4% ABV
The Peated Tokaji Finish is a testament to the art of whisky maturation. It began its journey by spending three years in virgin American white oak casks, followed by an additional two years of maturation in Hungarian Tokaji hogshead casks. This dual cask aging imparts a fascinating medley of flavors, including candied orange peel, sweet tropical smoke, dried apricot, cashew nut, Manuka honey, and rich dark chocolate. The whisky concludes with a long-lasting finish, leaving an indelible impression on the palate.
NOSE
On the nose, discover aromas of grilled pineapple, ripe mango, and dried apricots, as well as notes of candied orange peel, Seville marmalade, creamy vanilla, and delicious smoky tropical fruits.
PALATE
With flavors of vanilla custard, manuka honey, cashew nuts, and a rich fruity undertone throughout, the palate is creamy and thick.
FINISH
The finish is delicious and lingering, with more apricot, a little smokiness, and a bittersweet dark chocolate flavor.
Glasgow 1770 Golden Beer Cask Finish (Batch 02) – 58% ABV
This exceptional release is the result of a collaboration with Innis & Gunn, a revered name in the world of craft beer. The whisky was aged in ex-Pedro Ximénez sherry casks for a full year, following their use for maturing Innis & Gunn's beer. The result is a whisky with a distinct hoppiness, intertwined with notes of sultana, cherry, orange, and vanilla. With just 340 bottles available, this release offers a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to savor both the whisky and the beer, showcasing the incredible transformation of flavors that shared wood can bring.
NOSE
Expect rich notes of sultana, cherry, and orange on the nose, surrounded by dark fruits and vanilla.
PALATE
The flavor is large and full-bodied, with hints of raisins, orange peel, dried apricots, and fresh ginger on the palate.
FINISH
The aftertaste is lengthy and substantial, with flavors of nutmeg, dry hops, and sweet cinnamon spice.
Each of these exquisite expressions represents the culmination of meticulous craftsmanship and a dedication to pushing the boundaries of whisky innovation. With limited quantities available, these releases are highly sought-after by whisky connoisseurs and collectors alike.
The Glasgow 1770 Triple Distilled Cognac Cask Finish and the Peated Tokaji Cask Finish are each available for £59 ($US71.69) on The Glasgow Distillery's official website. The Golden Beer Cask Finish, presented as part of a special collaboration pack with Innis & Gunn, is priced at £64 (US$77) and offers a rare opportunity to experience the unique influence of beer cask finishing on whisky.
As these limited-edition releases hit the market, whisky enthusiasts and collectors are urged to secure their bottles promptly. These remarkable expressions are a testament to The Glasgow Distillery's commitment to pushing the boundaries of flavor and crafting exceptional whisky experiences.
About The Glasgow Distillery
The Glasgow Distillery, located in the heart of Scotland's largest city, Glasgow, is a relatively new addition to Scotland's whisky-making scene, but it has quickly gained recognition for its innovative and high-quality spirits. Established in 2014, it is one of the city's first independent distilleries in over a century, reviving Glasgow's rich tradition of whisky production.
The distillery prides itself on its commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. While it is known for producing whisky, it has also ventured into creating other spirits, including gin and rum. Their diverse portfolio reflects their desire to explore different aspects of the world of spirits and cater to a wide range of consumer preferences.
One of the Glasgow Distillery's notable whisky expressions is the 1770 Single Malt Scotch Whisky, named after the year the original Glasgow Distillery Company was founded. This whisky is a testament to their dedication to producing premium, small-batch Scotch whisky with a contemporary twist. It has garnered attention for its quality and unique character.
In addition to whisky, the Glasgow Distillery has produced award-winning gin under the Makar Gin brand. Their gins showcase a range of botanicals and flavors, adding to the distillery's reputation for craftsmanship and creativity in the world of spirits.
The distillery offers tours and tastings, allowing visitors to learn about their production processes, explore the distillery's history, and sample a selection of their spirits. The location in the vibrant city of Glasgow adds a dynamic urban dimension to the whisky and spirits experience, making it an appealing destination for both locals and tourists interested in Scottish craftsmanship and innovation.
In summary, the Glasgow Distillery is a relatively new but highly regarded player in Scotland's whisky and spirits industry. Its commitment to quality, innovation, and craftsmanship has allowed it to quickly establish itself as a notable contributor to Glasgow's rich distilling heritage.
