Speyburn Arranta Casks

The only factor preventing a perfect score is that it's slightly too hot; I suspect this is due to its age-stated status (NAS), suggesting the whisky is still quite young. That being said, this is a prime example of what can be missed if one dismisses NAS whisky based on principle (or pretentiousness). The nose is brimming with coconut cream pie, rich vanilla, nutmeg, and a variety of orchard fruits. The palate, despite a little warmth from the young spirit, is equally full and abundant with sweet, rich, luscious coconut, vanilla, ripe fruits, and spice, finishing with a subtle hint of chocolate towards the end. If the most significant criticism I can offer is that it's just a tad too young, then this is a winner – and at a very affordable price. I purchased this for under $40!

A relative gave this to me as an unexpected present last Easter after I joked about what they could bring for the meal ("a single malt would be nice"). A lovely dram and a fantastic deal for the cost. 92 proof and it burns as if higher, especially with some air added. I seldom drink anything other than neat... and since everyone's palate and nose are unique, I'll only state that there's minimal peat, good fruitiness, and decent complexity. I'm now finishing the bottle and anticipating the arrival of another relative (the first one's brother) and his wife and son for the 4th of July. Family, good food, good whiskey, and a great American Holiday. It doesn't get much better than that, in my opinion.

A fan of the 10 year and Bradan Orach, this was the next step up. Poured neat, fresh red apple and wood with some good malt notes. Light and inviting. The palate is vibrant with fruity malt, some vanilla and a heavy dose of oak. Likely from the first-fill casks. Finishes with drying malt and oak, with distant, fading fruit (apple) and vanilla. This reminds me of Ancnoc 12 and Glenfiddich Bourbon barrel combined. It has the lively fruit and malt with the vanilla and oak. Dry finish, but a very fresh, enjoyable scotch, especially at $33. I will buy this again... 84/100... really, the entire Speyburn line offers good quality and value.

A little too spicy for my liking. The tasting notes mention, “The palate is soft and light creamy...”. I agree it's light and creamy, but not soft. Initially sharp, spicy, a bit harsh, followed by a smooth, light fruitiness. It's acceptable for a change, but I likely won't purchase it again.

Aroma: tart apple, honey, sweet malt and ripe apples Taste: a smooth texture and the honey becomes the main element with vanilla notes as well Finish: a finish of moderate length, butterscotch, oak and rye spice

Nose: Honey, light oak, parmesan, floral, mint tea Palate: Honey, coffee, hazelnut, spice Finish: Oak, honey The finish is of medium length and somewhat underwhelming, comparing favorably to the Ben Nevis 10yr.