With a slight sense of trepidation tinged with a little nostalgia, I uncorked this bottle of Auchentoshan's American Oak whisky — a spirit that had been a steadfast companion during my early forays into the world of whisky. In those days, it was the epitome of convenience and affordability, readily available when options were limited (especially given my budget!). Returning to it now, after many years, I couldn't help but wonder if it would still hold the same allure as it once did.

In the realm of single malt Scotch whiskies, Glenkinchie 12 stands as a beacon of sophistication, capturing the essence of the Lowland style. This, Diageo-owned, distillery is based just outside Edinburgh and the whisky itself is distilled in some of Scotland’s largest stills giving it a lovely, light character. Diageo market this as an apperatif or pre-dinner dram but frankly I’d happily drink it any time!

All of Scotland’s 142* distilleries are organised into one of five traditional whisky producing regions - Highlands, Speyside, Islay, Lowlands and Campbeltown. But what do these regions mean and are they useful? The regions group all of Scotlands distilleries by geography and historically meant that flavour profiles could be expected to be similar within each region due to similar processes and use of local barley. Let’s find out more…

A review of the Auchentoshan Three Wood whisky. A dark and sumptuous dram