Oban Distillers Edition 15 Years Old 2001

From a 2001 vintage bottled in 2016, this 15 year old is a Distillers Edition that double matures Oban with a spell in Montilla Fino casks. The make is from the tiny urban distillery built by the Stevensons in 1794, around which the bay town of Oban later grew.

It was first matured in ex-Bourbon oak before a finishing spell in Montilla Fino casks. The spirit comes off the distillery's small stills and condenses in outdoor worm condensers, the warm water extending the copper contact and shaping the soft, fruity make that suits a pale, dry sherry. Oban is the West Highland representative of the Classic Malts, and the Distillers Edition is its richer companion, taking the same standard make and giving it a turn in sherry wood.

At the standard strength of 43% it stays dry and savoury. Roasted almond and a salty tang come from the pale sherry in place of dark fruit, a faint bready note from the flor, while the oak lends a touch of vanilla and a hint of cream. The dryness sharpens honey, orange peel and brine, soft smoke carrying a long, nutty close. The sherry adds savour and grip without ever tipping the make into sweetness.