Glengoyne launches White Oak range

Jul 24, 2024by Miona Madsen

Ian Macleod-owned Glengoyne Distillery has introduced its new White Oak range matured in American first-fill Bourbon and virgin oak casks.

The range introduces two new expressions: Glengoyne White Oak, which joins the brand's core expression range, and the limited edition Glengoyne White Oak 24-year-old. The White Oak range 'marks a bold and exciting new chapter for Glengoyne, expanding its taste profile from the predominant Sherry style that Glengoyne is recognised for'. “Our dedication to the best quality wood imparts itself in every expression from Glengoyne, and the White Oak range is a celebration of exactly that," said John Glass, master blender at Glengoyne. "I love Glengoyne in Bourbon wood; the distillery character balances wonderfully with the vanilla, coconut and spice from the casks, so I have been eager to create expressions that showcase this style." Matured in American first-fill Bourbon and virgin oak casks sourced from North America, the range is a nod to the summer home of the geese that grace Glengoyne valley every winter. The Glengoyne White Oak core expression offers aromas of 'vibrant oak, bright citrus, sponge cake, crisp red apple, ginger spice and a hint of violet' on the nose, followed by 'crème brûlée, fruit gum sweets, candied lemon, jam tarts and tinned pineapple' on the palate. The expression is offered at 47.8% ABV and retails worldwide at an RRP of £55 (US$71). White Oak can be enjoyed neat or mixed in a Highball cocktail or Manhattan. Meanwhile, the limited edition 24-year-old White Oak offers aromas of 'vanilla, toasted oak, lemon curd, honey, plum jam, coconut, spiced apple pastry dusted with icing sugar and a zest of lime' on the nose. The palate reveals notes of 'lemon and key lime pie, honeycomb, tropical notes, soft oak, star anise, chocolate and vanilla'. The 'extremely rare', non-repeatable release is also bottled at 47.8% ABV and is available only through selected retailers worldwide as well as on the company's website for £430 (US$555). “Releasing two exceptional Glengoyne whiskies, fully matured exclusively in American white oak, including a remarkable limited 24-year-old, marks a significant first for Glengoyne. These whiskies showcase our slow distillation process producing our signature fruity house style and our commitment to using the finest casks," said Gordon Dundas, brand advocacy director of Glengoyne. "We're thrilled for both long-time Glengoyne lovers and new enthusiasts to experience these pioneering drams." Ian Macleod Distillers acquired Glengoyne Distillery in 2003, followed by Tamdhu distillery in 2011. The company re-opened the iconic Rosebank distillery to the public in June 2024. In May this year, Ian MacLeod announced its newest distillery project, Laggan Bay, which is currently being built on Islay.