Glengoyne 12 is indeed chill-filtered. Chill filtration is a process commonly used in the whisky industry to remove certain impurities and particles from the whisky before it is bottled. This process involves cooling the whisky to a very low temperature and passing it through a fine filter, which helps to remove any cloudiness or sediment that may be present.
Chill filtration is often employed to enhance the appearance of the whisky, as it helps to create a clear and bright liquid in the bottle. However, some whisky enthusiasts argue that this process can also remove some of the flavor and texture from the whisky, as certain compounds that contribute to these characteristics can be removed during filtration.
In the case of Glengoyne 12, the decision to chill filter the whisky may have been made to maintain a consistent and uniform appearance across batches. This can be important for a distillery that aims to produce a whisky with a specific color and clarity.
It is worth noting that while Glengoyne 12 is chill filtered, the distillery takes pride in using natural color. This means that no artificial colorings are added to the whisky, and the color of the spirit comes solely from the casks it has been matured in. This is a practice that is appreciated by many whisky enthusiasts, as it allows the true character of the whisky to shine through.
However, it is also important to mention that Glengoyne does offer a cask-strength version of their whisky, which is not chill filtered. Cask-strength whiskies are bottled at their natural strength, without any dilution or filtration. This allows the whisky to retain all of its natural flavors and characteristics, providing a more intense and unadulterated drinking experience.
While Glengoyne 12 is chill filtered, it still offers a delightful drinking experience with its natural color and a range of flavors imparted from the first-fill Hogshead ex-bourbon barrels. The decision to chill filter the whisky may have been made to ensure consistency in appearance, but it is important to note that Glengoyne also offers a cask-strength version for those who prefer a more intense and unfiltered experience.