Glenglassaugh Distillery, while located near the town of Portsoy in north-east Scotland, is technically not considered a part of the Speyside whisky region. The Speyside region is known for producing some of the finest whiskies in the world, with distilleries such as Glenfiddich, Macallan, and Balvenie calling it home.
However, Glenglassaugh Distillery is just outside the boundaries of the official Speyside region. This means that while it may share some similarities in terms of production methods and flavor profiles, it is not classified as a Speyside whisky.
That being said, Glenglassaugh Distillery is still known for producing excellent single malt whiskies. The distillery has a fascinating history, having been founded in 1875 and experiencing a number of closures and changes in ownership over the years. It was closed for over 20 years before being revived and reopened in 2008.
During my visit to Glenglassaugh Distillery, I had the opportunity to taste some of their whiskies and was impressed by the quality and craftsmanship. The distillery uses traditional methods of production, including copper pot stills and oak casks for maturation, which contribute to the unique characteristics of their whiskies.
One of the standout features of Glenglassaugh whiskies is their coastal influence. Being located overlooking Sandend Bay, the distillery benefits from the sea air, which imparts a distinct brininess and maritime character to the whiskies. This sets them apart from the more inland distilleries of Speyside.
In terms of flavor profile, Glenglassaugh whiskies often exhibit a balance of fruity and malty notes, with hints of citrus, orchard fruits, and a touch of spice. The whiskies are typically well-rounded and smooth, with a depth of flavor that comes from the longer maturation periods that Glenglassaugh employs.
While Glenglassaugh Distillery is not officially classified as a Speyside whisky, it is still worth exploring for whisky enthusiasts. The distillery's unique coastal location and traditional production methods contribute to the character and quality of their whiskies. Whether you're a fan of Speyside whiskies or simply looking to expand your whisky horizons, Glenglassaugh offers a compelling and enjoyable experience.