Glenglassaugh Sandend Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700mL

Readers will recall it wasn't that long ago that Glenglassaugh's lengthy closure came to an end. Purchased in 2008 by legendary blender, Billy Walker, alongside its sister distilleries, Benriach and the famed Glendronach, in 2016 all three distilleries were subsequently acquired by US corporate giant, Brown-Forman. A brand overhaul was imminent and now includes new packaging and new high-strength NAS whiskies said to be influenced by the vibrant coastal region. All were matured in Glenglassaugh's local bond stores. The Sandend is a mix of x-Bourbon, sherry and manzanilla casks with a flavour profile summed up by the Master Blender, Rachel Barrie as "waves of tropical sweetness with a crack of sea salt". Next to Glenglassaugh's new 12 year old, it is certainly more fruity, though perhaps less complex. Sweet, biscuity malt brings hints of dried mango and semi-ripe banana. Those notes are echoed in a medium to full bodied delivery, and although the 'tropicality' isn't as intense as the label suggests, the texture is juicy, borderline oily, with a salt'n'pepper bite wrapping up the profile in lively fashion. Comparable to Old Pulteney, or perhaps young Clynelish, Sandend is a satisfying new addition to the coastal genre. 50.5% Alc./Vol.