New Release: Arran 1997-2015 18 Year Old Official Private Cask for The Whisky Hoop #1997/461

I was pleasantly surprised by the unexpected sherry notes. Arran ISLE OF ARRAN 1997-2015 18yo OB PRIVATE CASK for THE WHISKY HOOP #1997/461 49.4% one of 256 bottles, SHERRY HOGSHEAD The aroma features orange peel, faint pear and peach, vanilla, light cream, a moderate barley note, subtle cheese, pleasant oak with a touch of oil. On the palate, it starts softly and expands slightly spicy, with ripe orange and faint pear, a gentle sherry note from the depth, a soft barley umami with some chewiness, a touch of cheese, sweetness of orange and honey, a smooth richness, and the pleasant oak deepens the flavor, with a faint orange oil and a rich, satisfying finish. [Good/Very Good] This is the Arran 1997, 18-year-old sherry hogshead released in September this year. When it comes to Arran sherries, in recent years there have been many that are well-balanced with a solid sherry character without being off-putting, so I expected something along those lines. However, the color was different from what I anticipated. The sherry character here isn't particularly strong, and both in flavor and aroma it feels more gentle, wrapping around the entire profile. Additionally, there's a unique personality reminiscent of bourbon cask Arrans, which made it intriguing. Perhaps the sherry influence becomes more noticeable after drinking. In particular, the diverse fruitiness is highlighted, and the aging years are well-represented with a balanced expression of barley and oak notes, giving a sense of depth and complexity. It's very drinkable, so it's delicious even when sipped casually, yet offers depth and complexity that respond well to a more careful tasting. It was a wonderful Arran with a gentle, pleasant sherry character. #Isle of Arran (ISLE OF ARRAN)