Oban 12 yo Special Release 2025 Heart of the Harbour

 

 

 

54,7°

Distillery : Oban - Highlands

Ex-Bourbon American Oak Casks

Original Bottling 

Limited Edition 

Single Malt 

Bottled in 2025

Unchillfiltered, Uncoloured, Cask Strength

Almost Unpeated

 

 

 

Last year, the Oban Diageo Special Release underwent a complex maturation process. This year, nothing of the sort, simple American Bourbon Oak Casks will allow the distillate to shine. Otherwise, the principles remain the same, a limited edition in Cask Strength, without chill filtration or colouring.

 

 

 

Let's Taste It : 

It is airy, with a slight hint of peat to give depth, juicy fruit, yellow peaches, squeezed lemon, white grapes, creamy fudge, candied vanilla, elegant woodiness with a waxy note, roasted hazelnuts. Perhaps a pinch of salt. On the palate, it is smooth, citrusy, with more pronounced wood and less ripe fruit. Green apples, sandy beaches, restrained spices. Drops of honey. The finish is slightly oily, salted butter caramel, shortbread biscuits, liquorice and toasted peanuts. Lime zest. 

 

In Short, 

It's really not bad at all. The character of the distillery comes through here, whereas it's often too discreet for my taste in other bottlings I've tasted. That said, it still lacks a little complexity to be truly impressive. All in all, it's just a pleasant experience. What's more, the price is really exaggerated, which is a shame. 

Score : 87

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                           To Be Listened While Sipping : 

 

                                           Chris Stapleton - Joy of My Life