Macallan Fine Oak 18 Year

This Fine Oak offering was far more impressionable than the Macallan Rare Cask, which I found to be too heavy on the sherry influence. Here the introduction of ex-bourbon cask aged whisky into the mix makes a big difference. They vat it along with whisky aged in sherry seasoned American and European oak. The American oak to be sherry seasoned is cut and dried in Kentucky then shipped to Jerez, Spain for 18 months of saturation prior to being sent back to Scotland for filling and aging. This Fine Oak series is now discontinued and replaced with their new Triple Matured release that uses the same 3 barrel types; however, the 21, 25, and 30 year olds are no longer available. If you can find this bottle for around $220, I would buy two and stuff one away somewhere. Owning bonds paying a 5% dividend will double your money in 14 years, whereas a Macallan 18yo purchased 14 years ago has appreciated 1,000 percent! This is a great whisky! A sherry and bourbon laced ethanol makes for an elegant nose. A tad of bourbon spiciness on the palate keeps the sherry restrained and allows hints of dried fruits, hazelnuts, citrus, and sweet vanilla to all come through in perfect harmony. A long, smooth finish is filled with lemon and orange citrus, and just enough sweetness to take the curse off a touch of the expensive oak that Macallan sources. The quality is very evident. A solid 4 stars.

Balanced