The initial aroma is a bit rugged, evoking illicit stills and old sawmills. With time to breathe, the woody notes recede, revealing sweet vanilla bean, bright citrus taffy, sticky toffee, and a subtle floral hint. The palate is sweet and flavorful, showcasing distinct bourbon characteristics: brown sugar, Rainier cherries, cinnamon, peppercorn, raisin, orange peel, and a touch of mint. It has a good, somewhat creamy body, though the legs in the glass are thin and dissipate quickly, leaving many tears. The finish shifts from orange peel to lemon, the sweetness mellows to a simple icing, and a bit of dry spice cake emerges. Dry, dusky oak is the last impression, returning to the initial scent. This Deanston is a solid choice. Adding water intensifies the brown sugar and bourbon notes, potentially making it overly sweet; it's best enjoyed undiluted. It's quite good as is, despite being a bit unconventional. Nose: 8 Taste: 9 Body: 8 Finish: 9
Deanston 15 Year Organic
3.44 Mixed reviews
Whiskey Scotch Highlands 15 Year 46.3% ABV
Tried it?
How was this pour?
Score this bottleRating a bottle takes an account, so your scores follow you and count towards the number everyone else reads.
About this bottle
This is the inaugural certified organic single malt from Deanston distillery in the Highlands. It is crafted using locally grown organic barley. The spirit matures for at least 15 years in traditional ex-bourbon oak casks and is bottled non chill-filtered at 92.6 proof.
Reviews
Showing the most detailed of 6 parsed reviews.
Creamy and malty on the nose, with more of the same plus citrus on the palate. It brings to mind a classic Bruichladdich - straightforward, just delicious and satisfying. Are you certain this is virgin oak? It lacks the pronounced oak spice I typically associate with new barrels.
It's crisp, with a pine aroma and an "organic" feel. It embodies what I perceive as a classic Highland "Scotchy-scotch" style, which isn't usually my preference. However, the quality is undeniable, so I appreciate it. While not something I'd reach for regularly, it fills a specific niche in my collection.
Good Whisky, the organic version has a very light color. Crispy, light vanilla (bourbon barrel) and Christmas cake flavors. Not smoky at all for a sweet finish.
Tasting notes include honey and vanilla, with a very crisp finish. It has a light color, and the finish is its best attribute.
Few memories…
Tastes like this
Same style and price bracket, best rated first.