Review: Oban 15 Years Old Cask Strength

We don’t hear a lot from Oban, arguably the most boutique distillery in Diageo’s impressive Scotch stable. Its core offerings include only three expressions, not counting an annual Distillers Edition and the occasional one-off release, lately as part of Diageo’s Limited Edition line. When I visited the distillery last year, I was told that it produced just 1 million liters annually, a fraction of what most operations produce. So, it was something of a surprise to hear that Oban had launched a new expression, albeit another U.S.-only limited edition.

Oban Cask Strength 15 Years Old is a touch older than the flagship, which ages exclusively in ex-bourbon casks. The newest edition spends its early life in ex-bourbon, as well, followed by more than four years in a combination of oloroso and Palo Cortado sherry casks. It is bottled at natural cask strength, a feature of some past 21-year-old bottlings, but which have lately been reserved for the annual Diageo Limited Edition releases. Let’s check it out.

Oban 15 Years Old Cask Strength Review

The nose is deep and sultry and rather savory with a big sherry profile delivering notes of oily almonds, dried citrus, apple chips, old leather, and oxidized wine. A bit of salted caramel arrives as it opens with hints of buttery sweetness, but the sherry keeps things dry and raisiny for the most part.

The palate is peppery and bold with a round sweetness and very little of that sharper character often found in sherried whiskies. A silky, round mouthfeel showcases warming notes of currants and grape skin. Tannins and cracked peppercorn add some welcome energy to the midpalate, along with sweeter layers of orange oil, clove syrup, and a bit of milk chocolate. Things are well-balanced despite the preponderance of sherry. While it does get a touch balsamic, especially on the midpalate, the sherry never quite overtakes the traditional distillery profile.

That classic Oban salinity, soft peat smoke, and subtle coastal brine pairs well on the finish with notes of treacle, a little rancio, and a lingering candied cherry note. Unlike most any Oban expression I’ve encountered to date and well worth experiencing.

110.6 proof.

A- / $150

The post Review: Oban 15 Years Old Cask Strength appeared first on Drinkhacker: The Insider’s Guide to Good Drinking.