Glenallachie 10 Years Old Spanish Oak Finish 48% NV

Professional reviews

BOW (87.50)

GlenAllachie 10 Years Old Spanish Oak Finish: Exploring the Art of Oak Maturation

GlenAllachie Distillery continues to push boundaries with their innovative approach to whisky maturation, exemplified in their latest release, the GlenAllachie 10 Years Old Spanish Oak Finish. Bottled in 2023 with a 48% ABV, this expression showcases the influence of Spanish oak on the whisky, resulting in a unique and captivating character. By utilizing oak from distinct regions that typically do not supply wood for whiskey barrels, GlenAllachie demonstrates their commitment to exploring the impact of different oaks on their whiskies.

A Symphony of Oak Influence

The GlenAllachie Spanish Oak Finish series stands out due to its use of virgin oak casks, which have never been used to store other spirits or wine. The wood's impact on the whisky is solely derived from the characteristics of the oak itself. What sets this series apart is the sourcing of oak from three different regions not traditionally associated with whisky maturation. This allows GlenAllachie to showcase the diverse influences of oak on their whiskies, resulting in each expression possessing a unique character.

Product Innovation with Billy Walker

Whisky legend Billy Walker, the driving force behind GlenAllachie's innovations, is excited about the possibilities presented by this series. By using oak from different corners of the world, Walker has discovered endless opportunities for crafting exceptional whiskies. Experimenting with various oaks, roasting and charring the barrels to different levels, and developing the spirit has allowed him to create a range of flavors. Each bottling in the series offers a distinct profile: Scottish oak brings forth notes of nuts, pear, and gingerbread, Hungarian oak features waves of lemon juice, cinnamon, and raisins, and Spanish oak provides bursts of toffee sauce and ripe banana. These unique characteristics make each whisky in the series incredibly alluring.

The Spanish Oak Finish Journey

The GlenAllachie 10 Years Old Spanish Oak Finish undergoes an 18-month finishing period in hogshead barrels made from pedunculate oak sourced from the Spanish mountains. The cool yet humid climate of the region contributes to the wood's development. After air-drying for 18 months, the oak is roasted and charred to open its pores and infuse extra flavor into the whisky. The result is a beautiful interplay of influences that make this whisky truly unique.

Tasting Notes

Indulge your senses with the GlenAllachie 10 Years Old Spanish Oak Finish. On the nose, discover notes of orchard fruits, baking spices, sticky fudge, brown sugar, cherries, and citrus. The palate bursts with flavors of chocolate, coffee, and heather honey, followed by hints of pepper, ginger, and molasses. The long finish leaves a delightful aftertaste of banana and raisins, rounding out the flavor profile.

Conclusion

The GlenAllachie 10 Years Old Spanish Oak Finish showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of GlenAllachie Distillery in exploring the influence of different oak types on their whiskies. By using virgin oak from regions not traditionally associated with whisky maturation, GlenAllachie creates an exceptional range of flavors and aromas. The Spanish Oak Finish offers a captivating journey of orchard fruits, chocolate, and spices, making it a must-try for whisky enthusiasts. Raise a glass to the exploration of oak maturation and the unique character it imparts to GlenAllachie whiskies.

Whisky Notes (85)

Nose: we’re going towards cedar wood now, with a leathery touch and light hints of char. The woody side is warmer and more exotic, in a way. Hazelnuts alongside vanilla, Mon Chéri sweets and orange peels. Cinnamon notes as well. This is the most complex version – my favourite nose of the series.

Mouth: an oily, almost polished woody profile now. Certainly more nutty notes than in the other two, but also (even) more spice. Plenty of nutmeg, cinnamon and black pepper. A light tobacco note too, with hints of coffee and some clear tannins.

Finish: quite long, on cocoa, chilli and cinnamon, with flashes of orange peels.

I found this Spanish oak version (wood from Cantabria up North) the most interesting. Unlike a sherry cask from this wood type, it was toasted and charred. Although the tannins are starting to get loud on the palate, it is nicely warming and you really get some unique elements from this wood type.