Rock Oyster 18 Year

Subtle smoke, followed by potent and juicy peat on the tongue. Hard licorice candy dust Tart orchard apples Noticeable astringency, Seville oranges Ruby oranges, apricots, mangoes, pomelos, grenades Plantains, plantain skins Capsicum, peppercorns Nectar Molasses syrup Almond paste Moderately dark chocolate, java, cacao dust, musty, becomes intensely decadent and chocolatey that odd frozen treat flavor a touch of waxy grain Salty with a fresh, mineral-scented ocean breeze quality - A tiny splash of water, let it rest for half an hour to truly reveal its maturity. Impressive age. Transforms dramatically - completely reorients itself after about three weeks. Shifts from tart and zesty to festive confection: milk chocolate, aerated cream, massive tropical fruit. Quite rounded and smooth. Among the most exceptional and delightful single malts I've ever experienced. Expertly blended.

A potent, special release of Douglas Laing's Rock Oyster Island blended malt, aged 18 years. Whiskies for this blend come solely from Arran, Jura, Islay, and Orkney. It greets you with aromas of seaside smoke, a touch of sweet citrus rind, and spicy wood. The palate is full and opulent, featuring peat depth, vanilla, and a whisper of minerality, concluding with a lengthy, harmonious finish of floral honey. March 2018 / August 2022

Enjoyable drink, with delicate smoke. Hints of peach, orange, and more are present. It does not require water to reveal its character. I had to concentrate to discern all the components, but the effort was rewarding. A skillful blend.

From the North Shore Whisky Club: significantly different from the expression without an age statement. Does not evoke an island character. Good flavor, but the $150 cost is too high for its value.

Quite disappointed in the end, nothing exceptional. A good whisky that isn't worth this price.

I adore this. It's difficult to locate but well worth the effort to find.