Glen Scotia Victoriana

This represents an interesting shift from Glen Scotia 15. It possesses more character, with a maltier, bready quality that isn't overly offensive, though not particularly pleasant either. It has a distinctly earthy taste. While there's sweetness, it's more prominent on the nose than in the flavor. It's a bit spicier than the 15-year-old, with increased fruitiness (astringent citrus) and floral notes. The smoke is also sharper. The barrel influence is present but less monotonous and dominant compared to Glen Scotia 15. I'd say it surpasses Glen Scotia 15, and I'd be content drinking it, though I'm not a major fan. The strong bready flavor remains a disappointment. It's regrettable that the caramel notes detected on the nose translate to a more cereal-like taste on the palate, lacking richness. The overall balance is acceptable but not particularly captivating. I would consume this without complaint if offered and it might suit some preferences, making it a potentially reasonable option at the Glen Scotia 15 price point, but at its own price, it's not a worthwhile purchase.

The nose is somewhat reserved and doesn't hint at the powerful flavors this malt delivers on the palate. Smells like malty apple and figgy pudding (though as an American, I've only imagined what figgy pudding smells like). The palate is sweet with honey, raisin, chocolate, tart pear, and pear tart, finishing with vanilla and some oaky, tobacco, leathery notes. It has a nice, oily texture. The alcohol level is just right. A truly high-quality spirit. It vaguely reminds me of a certain single malt, likely due to the new charred oak finish, but this one is superior. Its flavors are more akin to bourbon, but the sherry influence is also detectable. It doesn't have that specific regional character, but perhaps a little smoky oak. Not all spirits can be the top-tier ones, but this is quite good. It's reminiscent of bourbon with detectable sherry notes.

Aroma: Sweat, greasy equipment, leather, tannins, moldy rags, my father's damp cellar, aged dusty books, a touch of honey, vanilla, smoke, and funk. Taste: Faint smoke, old books, sawdust, rich honey tones, vanilla, citrus zest, apples, damp clothes, raisins. Finish: Lingering, full, sourdough bread, smooth, vanilla, honey, musty wood, the lumber aisle at a hardware store. My description might sound unappealing, but this is an exceptionally unique and amazing whisky. It might be my favorite from my collection of Glen Scotia bottles (15, 16, 18, and this one). The scent of old books in an abandoned library and oily machinery transports me to the Victorian era! Don't miss out on this Campbelltown funk!

A sample from a spirits club online. Originally aged in a mix of first and second-fill bourbon barrels, then 70% spent 12 months in heavily charred American oak and 30% in PX casks, before being married for 6 months prior to bottling. The average age is 12 years. Excellent spirit. Nose: Toffee, banana cream pie, caramel, chocolate, raisins, cinnamon, cherries, floral notes, dates, nutmeg, salted cod, coffee, almonds, figs, hazelnuts, honey, coconut, smoke, peach. Palate: Salted caramel, chocolate, honey, banana cream pie, dates, figs, raisins, cherries, mangoes, pineapples, citrus, coconut. Finish: Salted caramel, honey, chocolate, pineapple, plums, dried fruit, toffee, coffee.

Mild floral notes and a hint of citrus on the nose with a touch of alcohol. The full-bodied entry is smooth but quickly transitions to a rather sharp alcohol burn and a swift finish with traces of spice. It lacks depth and the polish of aged scotch, but its hearty, not overly sweet character may appeal to those seeking a spirit that feels more potent than popular Speyside and Highland varieties. Unsure if the price is justified.

Aroma: Lemon, oats, apple pie, leather, dates, dark chocolate. Taste: Marzipan, tobacco, candied ginger Finish: Brown sugar develops into a long minty finish with a hint of chili spice and smoke. A delightful whisky with a wonderfully rich aroma and an oily, full mouthfeel. Adding water helps reveal more complexity. It's not on the same level as the 15-year-old, but few spirits are. Glen Scotia, I adore you.