2022 Oban Special Release 10 Year Old Natural Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky 750ml

Nose: light and seemingly high-pitched, with something in between pine needles and white flowers. Green apple, along with grassy notes and lemon. Salty sea air comes out, with a light hint of mustard. Green oak spice (nutmeg and pepper) adds to the sharpness.

Mouth: a layer of sweet fruits (tart apples, stewed peaches, sultanas), but pungent spice quickly overshadows the fruitiness. Ginger, white pepper and quite some salty notes again. Then firm peppermint and almost a rye element as well. More floral notes. There’s a hint of salted caramel and walnuts underneath, but it’s less sherried than I expected.

Finish: medium length, with more oak spice, a bit of peppery heat and citrus.