Octomore Series 15 Tasting, The Oak Barrel, Sydney. November 13, 2024. Whisky #1 Nose: Sweet confected fruity aromas, bubblegum gelato, nectarine, peach, vanilla, frangipani. The nose does not open with time in the glass and neither is it improved by water. Palate: An orchard, citrus fruit and cereal arrival with emerging sweet notes of tropical fruit, honey, sultanas, vanilla and milk chocolate. Dried fruit and wood spices appear as it develops but there is also an unusual soapy-floral note. The texture is full but not oily. Finish: Medium. Woody, herbal and mineral. There is the faintest touch of brine in the aftertaste. Water builds ginger and a touch of white pepper on the palate and this persists into the aftertaste. Reduction also introduces a sour note on the finish and it is not a positive effect. I felt this malt was more delicate than it seemed at first and it fell apart once watered. It’s a pleasant whisky but in my opinion not one of the best Black Art expressions, and not worth the asking price. It is warm, inviting and very easy to enjoy but at this price point I expect a whisky to be complex and offer me something to explore at length. While this is a good malt it is also somewhat monotonous. “Good” : 84/100 (3.75 stars)