Glenglassaugh Sandend Scotch Whisky
Glenglassaugh Sandend Scotch Whisky is a no-age-statement 101-proof (50.5% ABV) 700mL Highland single malt, matured in ex-bourbon, sherry, and manzanilla casks and named for the crescent beach of Sandend Bay that laps the distillery on Scotland's northeast coast. It is the whisky that put the revived distillery back on the map — Whisky Advocate's 2023 Whisky of the Year — delivering waves of tropical fruit finished with a crack of sea salt. It is available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 50.5% (101 proof)
- Size: 700mL
- Age: no age statement
- Origin: Glenglassaugh Distillery, Sandend Bay, Highland, Scotland (est. 1875; silent 1986–2008, now Brown-Forman)
- Casks: ex-bourbon, sherry, and manzanilla (dry coastal sherry) casks; unpeated, created by Master Blender Rachel Barrie
The Coastal Comeback Whisky
Glenglassaugh stood silent for 22 years before Alex Salmond fired it back up in 2008; since Brown-Forman's 2016 acquisition and Rachel Barrie's appointment as Master Blender, the distillery has rebuilt its range around its coastal position. Sandend is the centerpiece: the rare manzanilla casks bring a chalky, salted dryness that amplifies the maritime character, while the ex-bourbon and sherry wood supply tropical sweetness. Browse the Glenglassaugh collection and the whisky shelf at Del Mesa.
Tasting Notes
Summer gold in the glass. The nose is soft buttery vanilla ice cream drenched in tropical fruit — mango, pineapple — with chocolate and a touch of sea salt. The palate delivers waves of salted caramel with an effervescent burst of pineapple, cherry, and grapefruit, enlivened by the ocean shore. The finish is long and warming with juicy berries and a coastal breeze.
How to Enjoy
Try it neat first at full strength — a couple of drops of water can lift the tropical fruit further. It pairs with smoked salmon, aged cheeses, and rich seafood that echo its maritime character.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Glenglassaugh Sandend 101 proof?
It is bottled at 50.5% ABV to showcase natural intensity — Master Blender Rachel Barrie's house style for the new core range is bold, fruit-forward, and un-chill-filtered-friendly.
What does "Sandend" mean?
It is the crescent beach in Sandend Bay right by the distillery — the name points to the coastal character the whole range is built around.
What is a manzanilla cask?
A cask that held manzanilla, a very dry coastal sherry — it gives a chalky, salted dryness rather than dark sweetness.
Take home the 2023 Whisky of the Year — order Glenglassaugh Sandend online from Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.