Glenglassaugh Sandend - 50,5%

The Glenglassaugh Distillery, right on the coast near Portsoy, uses a careful composition of bourbon, sherry and Manzanilla casks for this expression. Under the direction of Master Blender Rachel Barrie, the result is a single malt that unites the typical sweetness of the Highlands with the salty breeze of the North Sea. Bottled at a robust 50.5% vol., the distillery consistently does without chill filtration and colouring, so the golden amber hue in the glass is entirely natural.

On the nose, an inviting bouquet of creamy vanilla custard unfolds, accompanied by an intense tropical medley of candied pineapple, papaya and guava. On the palate, Sandend is full-bodied and complex: ripe oranges and strawberries meet the spicy depth of sultanas and cinnamon. Particularly fascinating is the maritime contrast, with salted caramel and hints of seaweed rounding off the flavour profile and adding exceptional complexity.

This whisky comes highly recommended for connoisseurs who appreciate the interplay between sweetness and saltiness. Given its high strength, it is best enjoyed neat at first to experience the full intensity of the Manzanilla maturation. A few drops of still water, however, can release further fruit notes and make the texture seem even softer. An ideal staple for the discerning home bar, bringing the rugged elegance of the Scottish coast into your glass.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Exotic accents of ripe pineapple and guava combine with the soft scent of fine vanilla. A subtle breeze of sea salt gives the bouquet its first maritime note.

Palate: Juicy hints of orange and strawberry meet the sweetness of sultanas and spicy cinnamon. Creamy caramel and subtle notes of seaweed give the body a multi-layered, delicately salty structure.

Finish: The finish is long-lasting, with sweet caramel and mineral, maritime accents fading out elegantly.