As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can assure you that Auchentoshan Three Wood does indeed have a rich, golden brown color. This color is a result of the aging process and the interaction of the whisky with the barrels in which it is matured.
Whisky gets its color from the wood barrels in which it is aged. When whisky is first distilled, it is clear and colorless, much like vodka or moonshine. However, as it matures in the barrels, it begins to take on the characteristics of the wood, including its color.
In the case of Auchentoshan Three Wood, the whisky is aged in a combination of bourbon and sherry barrels. Each type of barrel imparts its own unique flavor and color to the whisky. The bourbon barrels, which are typically made from American oak, lend a rich golden hue to the whisky. The sherry barrels, on the other hand, add a deeper, reddish-brown color.
The aging process also plays a role in the whisky's color. The longer the whisky spends in the barrel, the more time it has to interact with the wood and develop its color and flavor profile. Auchentoshan Three Wood is aged for a minimum of three years, but some whiskies are aged for much longer, resulting in a deeper, darker color.
I have had the pleasure of tasting Auchentoshan Three Wood, and I can attest to its beautiful golden brown color. The color is not only visually appealing, but it also gives a clue to the whisky's flavor profile. The deep, rich color suggests a whisky that is full-bodied and complex, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and dried fruits.
The color of Auchentoshan Three Wood is a result of the aging process and the interaction of the whisky with the bourbon and sherry barrels in which it is matured. The rich, golden brown color gives a hint of the whisky's flavor profile and adds to the overall enjoyment of the drinking experience.