Whisky Review/Tasting: Oban 14 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Oban Distillery, located in the town of Oban on the west coast of Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Aged for 14 years, details on distillation and specific maturation processes are not provided, but it is mentioned that the whisky is colored, which implies the addition of caramel coloring.
Age Statement: 14 years.
Color and Bottle Design: The whisky is colored (caramel added), so the natural color is not specified. The bottle design is noted for being taller than standard liquor bottles, making it stand out in a bar cabinet.

Balance of Flavors: Described as elegant and glowing, marrying the sea air character of island malts with the soft, rich, fruity style of the Highlands.
Unique Characteristics: Light smoky note in the nose, not room-filling or intense. A faint smokiness adds to the style of the whisky, with a little spiciness and a hint of salt on the lips. The flavor becomes drier towards the end, with a complex, spicy, and smoky profile.
Comparison: It is suggested that Oban 14 years might be too different for typical Speyside single malt whisky connoisseurs, bridging the gap to the peaty and intense Islay malts.

Distillery History: Founded by John A. Hach-Stevenson in 1794, the town of Oban grew up around the distillery. The distillery is located near ancient caves and a monument, adding to its historical significance.
Anecdotes: The unique bottle height and the historical context of the distillery's location are highlighted, including its proximity to ancient caves and a World War monument.

Geographical Context: Oban's location between the Islay malts and the Highland malts contributes to its unique flavor profile, combining elements of both regions.
Cultural Insights: The influence of the social heritage and knowledge of the people in the region on the whisky's taste is emphasized over the geographical or climatic factors.

"Wonderful. Really, really wonderful." - Horst Luening, expressing his admiration for the Oban 14 years.
"This should belong to every malt whisky connoisseur's bar." - A strong recommendation for the inclusion of Oban 14 years in a whisky enthusiast's collection.

Oban 14 years is a single malt Scotch whisky with a unique position between Islay and Highland malts, offering a light smoky note and a complex, spicy, and slightly salty flavor profile.
The distillery's rich history and its geographical location contribute significantly to the whisky's character.
The whisky is presented in a taller-than-usual bottle, adding a distinctive physical characteristic.
Expert opinion highly recommends Oban 14 years for its unique flavor profile and its ability to bridge the gap between different styles of Scotch whisky.

For the Whisky Connoisseur: Highly recommended for its unique position between Islay and Highland malts, offering a complex and distinctive flavor profile.
For the Speyside Enthusiast: May offer an interesting departure from the typical Speyside profile, introducing elements of smokiness and coastal influence.
For the Islay Aficionado: A gentler introduction to the smoky and peaty flavors characteristic of Islay malts, without the intense peatiness.