Isle of Raasay Na Sia Single Cask Unpeated Chinkapin Virgin Oak

This was an engaging tasting that highlighted the Na Sia (The Six, in Scots Gaelic) single cask collection from Raasay. Prior to Raasay releasing its initial malt whisky from their distillery, I was invited to sample the aging spirit from the same selection as this tasting. I have contrasted the current whisky with the aged spirit before full maturation as a comparison – presented at the conclusion of the notes. Smell: Sweet, honey, hairspray Taste: Spicy, smooth, extremely sweet, apple, butterscotch, heather, golden syrup, toffee. Faint earthy/funky notes Aftertaste: Extended aftertaste. Astringent oak, leather, wood shavings Compared to: Spirit aged for 25 months. The whisky possesses a rather substantial texture, which is more noticeable when contrasted with the 25-month spirit. It forfeits the tart citrus note and acquires a buttery, biscuit-like malty characteristic. Significantly smoother with a richer flavor. Achieved a tie for third place out of the six pours, with 18% of the ultimate vote for the favorite of the evening. All attendees indicated they enjoyed the whisky.

Wonderful. Woody, sweet.