Scott_E
Oban Little Bay
Single Malt — Highlands, Scotland
Reviewed
May 23, 2017 (edited January 20, 2020)
Finishing my last two episodes of "Billions" since the Mets are faltering against the Brewers wanting to enjoy my pour of this Oban, thanks to Ryan from SDT group. Oban 14 has not really struck with me and has this reputation that precedes it and sometimes I find myself wondering what others are getting from it. Maybe this is the one?
The nose is faint. Citrus orange peel is the primary note. Confectionary sugar sweetens the nose. Apricot and honey with a touch of maritime sea salt all nicely detectable. The orange citrus, over time, transforms to orange creamsicle as the bitter peel is insfused with the sweeter aromas. Working towards the palate, the initial draw is bittersweet: unripened apples with caramel blend providing this sensation. Wood tannins, vanilla, honey all blend together keeping that bittersweet sensation. Give it time, and the sweetness strenthens and is much improved. Finally, the finish is long yet not terribly dynamic leaving the palate filled with orange bitters, drying oak and cloves.
A fine malt, but once again, for me, falls a bit short of being exceptional. Don't get me wrong, the aromas, the flavors and the finish are enjoyable and the ying-yang of bitter to sweet has a nice play with a slight sophistication. A dram that is worth seeking out. Oban may have a following and a name and other seem to connect. But my connection/experience to it, like with Oban 14 (and another brand, Glenmorangie), is not on the same plane. [Dry Glass: Cracker Jacks][85/100][Tasted: 5/15/17]
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I think it's the mass appeal, like Balvenie or Glenfiddich. It's easy on the palette, and without any strong flavors like Islays.
Totally with you; I've never quite understood the Oban worship that goes on. They make good, but not great, whisky that's usually overpriced for what it is.