Oban 2001 Distillers Edition

Montilla-Moriles is a neighbouring region to the sherry region in the South of Spain, and they produce wines in a similar style. Although they use similar names like Fino and Oloroso, they almost exclusively use Pedro Ximénez grapes (also for dry wines) whereas the sherry denomination requires Palomino grapes for most wines.

All this just to say Oban uses Montilla Fino casks for the ‘double maturation’ of their Distillers Edition. We’re trying the latest 2016 release.

Oban 2001 ‘Distiller’s Edition’ (43%, OB 2016, Montilla Fino finish, ref. OB 165.FB)

Nose: orange peel and lots of malty notes. Light honey, hints of figs. There is the obligatory salty edge as well, but less prominent than in the regular Oban 14 for instance (it’s coming from the Oban location, not the Fino).

Mouth: again a fairly malty start, with rounder notes of grapes and stewed fruits from the wine. Hints of butterscotch. Light peppery notes.

Finish: medium long, drier, nuttier, with some coffee and soft spices.

I think the typical Oban character stands out more in the regular expressions. However this is simply a fine release. Around € 75.

Score: 83/100