Oban 14
Single Malt Scotch whisky
Age: 14 years
Abv: 43%
(tasting note from Dec 17, 2020)
No bottle notes of substance, lots of lore which is pretty cool, but nothing to lead the consumer in the experience.
Treated myself to a year end special bottle and re-added Oban 14 to the cabinet. Definitely a Noob favourite, I last had it here over a year ago, probably tasted Wayneโs over last winter, and where I still have some Oban Little Bay on the shelf, I was definitely keen to set up the Oban bookends!
Nose
Initially quite a bit of gentle peat and woodsmoke to greet me. There are fields of fruit, salty air. A rich abundance of fruit and field. It is very delicate – nothing jumps out of the glass and smacks you in the face, you have to approach it softly, intently. There is a woody smokiness threading throughout, but so very light and subtle.
There is a distinctive maritime nose here – salt air, underpinned with apple, pear, red berries. And it comes back repeatedly – a lightly vegetal, smokey bed under it all.
Palate
Creamy, rich and full. There is fruit, and spice. Salt and custard. But my goodness, the full, rich mouthfeel above all, and the flavours come in as a supporting cast. Like the nose – light, subtle, smooth. There is cinnamon, fruit again, and definitely a touch of sweetness. But foremost for me, is the mouthfeel rather than taste.
Finish
Light but lingering. Caramel, spice, faint fruit. Wood, and a lovely, lightly salty song.
Final Thoughts
I was pretty excited to have this on the shelf again. I really wanted to share the opening with someone but alas, times being as they are, I figured I should open the bottle and get the air working on this wonderful whisky. Oban 14 continues to be one that I feel escapes me somewhat, but tonight it connected – it is subtle. Light, delicate – you have to pay attention. I was delighted to detect the light smoke, and the salt! Lovely, lovely combination, and the fruity threads throughout. This is so smooth, but with a richness, as well. Happy to have it in the cabinet again, it will take a proud spot on the top shelf!
