The distillery that sits pretty much on the fence, and I say this literally, situated on the divide between the highlands and the lowlands. The “Valley of the Geese”, also known as the Glengoyne distillery is a small farm styled distillery that produces Highland whiskies with a slight twist, maturing their produce in the Lowlands.

It’s uniqueness doesn’t stop there; they leverage a rather low yielding barley, one that  is, however, of superior quality. The Golden Promise Barley is also bestowed with a rather malty character that adds to this expression’s richness. And prior to the mashing process, the distillers dry their malted barley by passing hot air over it. Additionally, they ferment their mash longer than most typically would, and distill their wort for extended periods too. This encourages greater interaction with the copper from the stills that help subdue some of the more stronger, intense flavours, giving a more fruity, floral, and subtle whisky.

This specific expression, The Legacy Three is their third instalment of the Legacy series and is inspired by Sir Arthur John Tedder, an exciseman at the distillery that helped shape some of the rules that defined scotch whisky during the very early 1900s.

The whisky is aged in american exsherry casks and comes in the standard bottling but with a lovely, regal purple hue. This is a No Aged Statement spirit and comes void of any chill filtration or any artificial colouring.

ABV : 48%

Eye : Deep copper | Natural Colouring, Non Chill Filtered

Nose : Floral scents infused with caramel and marshmallows, milk chocolate, dried fruits and dates. Some leather like notes seem infused with woody tones; mild hints of cantaloupe are soon followed by green pepper, sage and some earth.

Taste : A wave of sweetness, emanating from nougat, vanilla and cereal. A certain richness from dried fruits, raisins and plums. Woody and nutty; a mild spice begins to take shape, with bits of cinnamon and pepper.

Finish : Medium | Sweet toffee with fruity nuances, hints of earthiness and a warm spice that slowly tapers off.

The Legacy Three is a such a treat – flavourful, sweet, and floral; coming in with a lot of restraint. The whisky has a light to medium body that invites you in with its bouquet of delicate yet wholesome nuances. I did feel the lowland influence, coupled with the increased distillation times, might strip some of its complexity and for lack of a better word, variety; but I see how this play in reality brought forth so many layers and an array of flavours.

At around AUD $90, it’s a recommend, and apt for someone who loves a whisky that isn’t bold, nor too heavy! Great depth, easy to approach, high ABV, no artificial colouring, stellar delivery, this is an expression that truly deserves  attention. Do let me know what your thoughts are!

PS : I love the embossed Flying Goose, very much echoes the “Valley of the Geese” theme!

Slainte!