This baby has been selected by our friend Luc Timmermans, so in theory, it should resemble a Glenfarclas. I wrote ‘in theory’…
Colour: white wine.
Nose: no fruity burst, rather an oily and grassy start, with some green tea and cigars (gotcha Luc), then rather tinned fruits, from guavas to peaches. Rather a textured Auchentoshan, without any excessive vanilla-ed oak. With water: floral! Rose petals and, well, gewürztraminer. Rather Luc indeed.
Mouth (neat): it’s one of those Auchentoshans that have got an Irish side, with passion fruits and mentholated bananas (?!) at first, then more grassy teas and leaves and peelings. All that rather works in sync, I have to say. With water: a grassier Bushmills of some sort.
Finish: medium, fruity and leafy. Don’t I find kiwis now?
Comments: an excellent good, clean, and yet complex old Auchentoshan. And above everything, there’s little vanilla!
Gal Granov (82)
whiskynotes.be
Nose: very natural, with varnished oak, sugared cereals and plenty of lemons and unripe pears. Greengages. Hints of vanilla and orange blossom. More honey and aniseed over time. Mouth: same feeling of natural whisky, almost like an eau-de-vie. A big dose of freshly sawn oak, apple peelings and grapefruits. A slightly bitter tang and chalky edge. Mint and grassy notes. Aniseed again, a little pepper. Finish: medium long, hints of grass and barley eau-de-vie.
Perhaps a little neutral for my taste, with a grassy and oaky signature. A fair price for a 20 years old whisky though
Words of Whisky (84)
:
Nose: Soft and gentle vanilla sweetness and dusty oak, but also straw. Milk chocolate and subtle fruits. Peach with a whiff of lime.
Taste: Some bitter oak and mild spices (cloves), accompanied by light notes of honey and linseed oil. Traces of underripe banana peel and pear.
Finish: Gentle yellow fruits. Finally somewhat grassy. Medium in length.
BOW (88)
Auchentoshan 24 Years Old: The Duchess Shieldmaiden Ylva - A Whisky Voyage Crafted by Dutch Premium Independent Label, The Duchess
Auchentoshan, a distillery nestled in the heart of Scotland, is celebrated for producing exquisite Lowland single malt Scotch whiskies. Among their remarkable releases, the Auchentoshan 24 Years Old: The Duchess Shieldmaiden Ylva stands out as a testament to the distillery's craftsmanship. Bottled in 2014 by the esteemed Dutch premium independent label, The Duchess, for their exclusive Shieldmaiden Series, this expression captures the essence of time and artistry. Let us embark on a journey through the nuances of this rare whisky, selected by Luc Timmermans and matured on a bourbon cask.
The Duchess and The Shieldmaiden Series:
The Duchess is renowned for its dedication to sourcing and bottling exceptional and elusive whiskies. Their discerning curation showcases a diverse and captivating selection, appealing to whisky enthusiasts seeking unique and extraordinary experiences. The Shieldmaiden Series, a limited edition range by The Duchess, pays homage to the strength and courage of Viking shieldmaidens, known for their unwavering spirit and indomitable nature.
Auchentoshan 24 Years Old: A Symphony of Time and Flavor:
The Auchentoshan 24 Years Old is a remarkable expression, having matured for nearly a quarter of a century. This lengthy maturation process allows the whisky to develop complex layers of flavors and aromas, showcasing the mastery of Auchentoshan's distillers. The Shieldmaiden Ylva edition takes this exceptional whisky a step further, handpicked by Luc Timmermans, a respected authority in the world of whisky.
Matured exclusively in a carefully selected bourbon cask, this Auchentoshan expression exhibits the characteristic smoothness and lightness associated with Lowland whiskies. The interaction between the spirit and the oak cask over the years creates a symphony of flavors and aromas, harmoniously marrying the natural sweetness of bourbon with Auchentoshan's distinctive character.
Tasting Notes:
The Auchentoshan 24 Years Old: The Duchess Shieldmaiden Ylva entices the senses with its captivating bouquet. Aromas of ripe tropical fruits, including mango and pineapple, intermingle with hints of vanilla, honey, and a delicate floral undertone. On the palate, the whisky unveils a gentle and sophisticated character. The creamy texture and rich flavors of vanilla custard, toffee, and oak spice are balanced impeccably, allowing each note to shine. The long and satisfying finish leaves traces of oak, citrus zest, and a touch of lingering sweetness, leaving a lasting impression.
The Rarity and Collectability:
The Auchentoshan 24 Years Old: The Duchess Shieldmaiden Ylva is a highly sought-after gem in the whisky world. Bottled at a cask strength of 51.5%, this limited edition release captures the whisky's essence in its purest form. Its rarity, coupled with the expertise of the selection process by Luc Timmermans, makes it a prized addition to any whisky collection. The Shieldmaiden Ylva edition exemplifies The Duchess' commitment to offering fine and ultra-rare casks, ensuring that whisky connoisseurs have access to unique and exceptional expressions.
Conclusion:
The Auchentoshan 24 Years Old: The Duchess Shieldmaiden Ylva is a testament to the marriage of Auchentoshan's artistry and The Duchess' commitment to excellence. This expression takes whisky enthusiasts on a sensory voyage, offering a glimpse into the nuanced flavors and aromas that result from meticulous craftsmanship and extensive maturation. With its limited availability, meticulous selection process, and exceptional character, The Auchentoshan 24 Years Old: The Duchess Shieldmaiden Ylva is a whisky to be treasured and savored by those fortunate enough to experience its allure. The Shieldmaiden Ylva edition is a true testament to the art of whisky making and a remarkable addition to The Duchess' outstanding selection.
