What is the difference between green spot and yellow spot whiskey?

Answered by Louis Krause

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can tell you that the difference between Green Spot and Yellow Spot lies primarily in their age and maturation process. The Mitchell family, who produced these whiskeys, used colored paint to mark their casks, indicating the age potential of the whiskey. Green Spot is marked with a green paint daub, signifying that it is a 10-year-old whiskey, while Yellow Spot is marked with a yellow paint daub, indicating that it is a 12-year-old whiskey.

1. Age: The most significant difference between Green Spot and Yellow Spot whiskey is their age. Green Spot is aged for 10 years, while Yellow Spot is aged for 12 years. This additional aging imparts different flavors and characteristics to the whiskey, making each unique in its own right.

2. Flavor Profile: Due to the extra two years of aging, Yellow Spot whiskey tends to have a richer and more complex flavor profile compared to Green Spot. The extended maturation period allows for further interaction between the whiskey and the oak , resulting in a deeper and more pronounced flavor.

3. Aromas: The additional aging also influences the aromas of Green Spot and Yellow Spot whiskey. Green Spot typically exhibits fruity and floral notes, with hints of apple, pear, and citrus. On the other hand, Yellow Spot develops more robust aromas, often featuring dried fruits like apricot and raisin, along with spice and oak characteristics.

4. Smoothness: The extra aging of Yellow Spot whiskey also contributes to its smoother texture compared to Green Spot. The longer maturation allows the whiskey to mellow and integrate its flavors, resulting in a velvety and well-rounded mouthfeel.

5. Availability: Another notable difference between Green Spot and Yellow Spot is their availability. Green Spot is more widely available and accessible, while Yellow Spot is considered a more limited edition whiskey and may be harder to find in certain markets.

Personal Experience:
I have had the opportunity to taste both Green Spot and Yellow Spot whiskeys on multiple occasions. The Green Spot whiskey impressed me with its vibrant and fresh flavors, reminiscent of orchard fruits and a touch of sweetness. It had a lively character that made it incredibly enjoyable to sip.

In contrast, the Yellow Spot whiskey offered a more pronounced and complex flavor profile. The additional aging brought out deeper layers of flavor, with notes of dried fruits, spice, and oak. The smoothness and richness of the whiskey were truly exceptional, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate a more robust and mature whiskey.

The difference between Green Spot and Yellow Spot whiskey lies primarily in their age, resulting in variations in flavor, aroma, smoothness, and availability. While both whiskeys are excellent choices, Yellow Spot offers a more mature and complex drinking experience compared to Green Spot. Whether you prefer the vibrant and fresh characteristics of Green Spot or the deeper, richer flavors of Yellow Spot, both whiskeys are sure to delight any whiskey enthusiast.