Glen Scotia 15 46%

From the Glen Scotia website:

An exceptional single malt whisky matured from specially selected casks that deliver the true character of a 15 year old Campbeltown malt whisky.

This single malt whisky has been laid down in specially selected casks which have been handpicked by our Master Distiller, Iain McAlister.  Gently matured in the finest American oak barrels, discover hints of vanilla oak, interwoven with the subtle notes of sea spray and spicy aromatic fruits.

Tasting notes:

Nose: Richer colours. Broad and medium-weight with citrus peels, ginger snap biscuits. Sweet and with great depth. Apricot aromas develop then drift towards fruit salad. After a short time, the wood comes to the fore and water helps to release baked fruit.

Taste: A complicated palate where the initial nose would lead you to expect plump fruits, but what you get is a surprisingly dry element. Adding water will bring out the caramelised elements, balanced with the wood elements expected of a 15 year old.

Finish: Firm and slightly dry, with warming spice.

Tasting Notes:

Appearance: Deep gold, forms a thin line before gradually falling as thin legs.

Nose: Dried orange peel, apricot jam on a chocolate cake, ginger spice, followed by sweet vanilla and caramel gradually coming to the fore.

Palate: More baked stoned fruit, vanilla and caramel, a little coastal saltiness and a prickle of ginger. Water brings more creaminess and and a warm mocha note.

Finish: Soft and gentle cinnamon and ginger notes linger on the palate.

Summary: I’d forgotten just how good a whisky this is, probably due to the fact it’s always been part of a tasting session and up against real favourites like the Victoriana Cask Strength. Not only is it a real pleasure to sip neat, the addition of a few drops of water take it to another level. At a price point sub-£60, this is a whisky that deserves serious consideration.

If you would like more information on this whisky, or the Glen Scotia distillery, follow the link to the company website.

Thanks to Steve at The Whisky Wire for the @TweetTastings invitation to this tasting session.