We’re usually quite fond of Oban expressions in the Special Releases. Merely two years ago we had an Oban 10 Year Old (finished in Amontillado) and this year the same age statement appears, again with a sherry finish.

This year’s bottling matured in refill casks, before finishing in charred American oak barrels, seasoned with Oloroso sherry. Sherry casks are normally toasted instead of charred and they’re usually larger than a standard barrel. That makes it quite uncommon indeed, although we should add that an increased wood influence rarely makes it nicer in our book.

 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.