Scapa 16 Year

Distilled in 2012. This has a bit of a cult following. It's bottled at 40% ABV. It's chill-filtered. Artificial coloring has been added. So, why the fan club? Well, this checks all the boxes for what I believe many whisky reviewers overlook. I'm unsure why Scapa chose to dilute this spirit to the minimum required alcohol content, chill-filter it, or add color; they certainly don't target a mass audience. Ultimately, it makes no difference. Spirits aren't vehicles, and technical details don't concern me. This whisky is distinctive, possesses genuine character, and that's what's important. If it seems weak or thin, it's like 1990s high fashion. Think of Kate Moss playing with a rhubarb. This expression doesn't try too hard. It's good effortlessly. I can understand why some might call it watery or lacking depth. But they're mistaken. This pour is gentle, authentic, detailed, and deliberate, much like observing a dandelion bloom. At 40% ABV, its strength comes from the harmonious blend of flavors. Rhubarb, apple, and black pepper. Tomatillo, lemon, sea salt, and a touch of smoke. Apricots, a drizzle of honey, a hint of fresh mint. It's simply perfect. You can drink this quickly and just enjoy the easy sipping experience. Or, you can drink it slowly and notice all the subtle elements that harmonize to create a symphony. Would it be as remarkable if it were non-chill-filtered, naturally colored, and bottled at 46% ABV? I don't know. This whisky's appeal lies in its effortless excellence. It has the characteristics of a mass-produced blended spirit, but linger on the nose too long, and you'll be captivated. Rating: * (unforgettably good) Bottle cost: Approximately $80 if you can find a dusty bottle at retail. $150-300 on the secondary market. My estimated bottle value: $130

Brown sugar is dominant on the nose, followed by vanilla. A light sweetness of banana, honeysuckle, and hints of sea salt appear on the nose. The longer it sits, the more the fruity sweetness stands out. The light and thin body delivers honey initially on the palate, which then opens up to lemon-honeyed tea. The finish is medium with honey sweetness, dry oakiness, and a touch of black pepper. This is a light-bodied spirit (similar to Dalwhinnie 15) that is easy-drinking and enjoyable. The bourbon influence is clear and works effectively. The spirit improves with time, so definitely allow it some air. It might be even better if bottled at 43% or 46%. It's somewhat pricey, unfortunately (like most whiskies these days). More people would enjoy it if it were more affordably priced. [$79][86/100][Opened 10/25/14; Revisited: 12/29/15]

Nose: honey, pear, gentle vanilla notes, sea air. Palate: more of the same, with added floral notes, hints of citrus, and extra orchard fruit. The salt is nicely apparent, lending depth to the drink. Finish: medium length, sweet and salty with a faint hint of wood smoke and some spice. A delightful whisky that doesn't quite present as 16 years old, but it remains refined, elegant, and complex. While I can't afford to own a bottle, I order it whenever it's offered. If you appreciate maritime whiskies but want to experience salt/sea air notes presented in a slightly different way than the typical Islay style, this could be suitable for you.

So many Bothans died to bring us this malt... I honestly assumed the bar had left this on the list by mistake. That said, I have no idea how long this bottle has been open, or how well it was preserved once opened. However, in its current state, this one is a bit shy and subdued. The aroma is more prominent, with heather, honey, and vanilla fudge dusted with sea salt... there's an appealing, light note of pipe tobacco in the background. The palate is restrained, yet gentle and lovely with honey, floral notes, rich and creamy vanilla, and a subtle hint of sweet tobacco smoke around the edges. If you happen to find it, it's worth trying.

My initial experience with Scapa was with the Skiren, and I wasn't wowed. This one is a significant improvement, though I still feel you can find a superior whisky for the same price. This expression is also known as "The Orcadian" On the nose: Salty, heather, caramel, faint grape, and blackberry. Very subtle peaty notes. After a few minutes, blackberry jam becomes noticeable. On the palate, it was very mellowed. Caramel and dulce de leche. Cinnamon and salt. Delicious. The finish was long, also featuring cinnamon and salt notes, quite pleasant. Overall, this is more in line with what I expect from an island whisky, but I still believe Highland Park surpasses other Orkney whiskies. 87/100.

I don't understand. This is no longer produced, yet it's so incredibly good... does that make any business sense? Perhaps they are running low on the 16s? I usually only have a small drink on Fridays and Sundays (which I dedicate to Walking Dead, Game of Thrones, or celebrating when the Giants and Jets win, depending on the sports season!), but a friend sent over some samples this evening, and I couldn't resist. Thank you, friend! I'm a fan of Islanders. There's something about the oceanic aroma, briny flavor, and salty finish. I truly enjoyed this one for capturing those salty qualities. It was my first time trying this brand, and I definitely need to explore more... thanks again to my friend!