The modern version of Glengoyne 10 year old has its origins back in 2006 - a few years after current owner Ian Macleod purchased the distillery and the Lang’s brand from Edrington. Though unspecified on the front the bottle, the Glengoyne website indicates that the expression is created from European and American oak sherry casks – certainly that comes through in the profile, but I’d be surprised if a fair amount of ex-bourbon was not in the mix here also. It’s bottled at 40% ABV and could be acquired at Master of Malt for £31.90.
Nose: Orchard fresh with plenty of nuttiness. Tart green apples are served with a side of toffee sauce, whilst breakfast cereals are topped with skimmed milk. Maltiness is pronounced with barley water whilst the underlying spirit and sherry influence presents cashew nuttiness. In the background, zesty lemons and lozenges – crisp and adding to the overall sense of freshness.
Taste: A gentle if slightly underpowered arrival – but then with a pleasantly textured residue mouthfeel which is nicely coating. Green apples, toffee apples and cider apple juice are joined by pear juice for yet more orchard inspired fresh fruitiness. Coffee grounds, coffee beans, pink wafer biscuits and chocolate hundreds and thousands sit with powdered ginger. Whilst in the back-palate, honey and slight steeliness move steadily wood-wards with dry charred cask ends.
Finish: Rather short, quite malty and with plenty of grassiness.
Glengoyne 10 year old is a likably approachable daily drinker. Whilst the profile is soft and undemanding, this still manages to offer both a good drinking experience, and some gradations which other whiskies in this lower price bracket fail to convey. Unchallenging, but ultimately rather friendly.