Tucked away in Speyside, Auchroisk (which is pronounced 'Oth-rusk') is a relatively modern distillery with a fascinating story. Built in the 1970s after the discovery of a remarkably pure water source called Dorie's Well, it was designed from the ground up to produce high-quality spirit for the famous J&B blended Scotch. While it may not have the centuries-old history of some of its neighbours, it quickly established a reputation for producing outstanding whisky.
Unlike the exceptionally light and delicate spirits typical of the area, Auchroisk produces a surprisingly robust and weighty Speyside single malt. The stills here are uniquely designed to encourage plenty of interaction between the copper and the vapour, resulting in a rich, deeply flavoured, and beautifully unpeated whisky.
In the glass, you can expect a wonderful balance of sweet and spicy notes. Look out for inviting aromas of ripe orchard fruits, toasted nuts, and a gentle wave of vanilla. On the palate, it delivers a smooth, warming texture with a distinctly spicy, lingering finish that easily sets it apart from the crowd.
Because the vast majority of its production is carefully reserved for blending vats, official single malt releases are a brilliant find. It is the perfect choice for anyone looking to explore a heavier, more complex side of Speyside.