Home Tasting: Imperial 1995-2015 19yo Signatory Vintage for The Whisky Hoop #50163

The rich fruits were as expected, but the peat was unexpected. Imperial IMPERIAL 1995-2015 19yo SIGNATORY VINTAGE for THE WHISKY HOOP #50163 53.0% One of 257 bottles, Hogshead ・Aroma: Rich and mellow, apricot jam and strong marmalade, vanilla cream, coconut, firm hazelnut, pleasant oak, gentle barley notes, tar and strong peat from the depth, rich. ・Flavor: Mild mouthfeel, strong viscosity, gradually becoming spicy with oakiness intensifying, apricot jam and pineapple, wax and coconut oil, honey's rich sweetness, tightening oak tannins, faint woody notes, unexpectedly peaty with solid tar. ・Aftertaste: Rich fruits and tar linger with an oily, long finish. ・Dilution: Slightly flat but generally remains consistent. ・Overall Review: The rich, mellow fruity character and oily texture are appealing. The bourbon cask influence is clear with oak tannins slightly emphasized, adding depth to the flavor. The tar-like nuances were particularly impressive. The Whisky Hoop bottled this Signatory Imperial 1995, aged for 19 years. Like many other 1995-distilled Imperials, it's a rich, viscous malt with strong oak influence and satisfying depth. While most of this was expected, the pronounced peaty tar-like nuances left a strong impression. Though not overly intrusive, the tannins carry a faint woody character that slightly tires the palate. While punchier than the simultaneously released Balvenie, the latter proved more drinkable in the long run. In terms of satisfaction per glass, this one wins with a longer, richer finish. For Imperials from 1995, there are many variations available through bottlers, but this one stands out as particularly distinctive.