Macallan 10 Year Sherry Oak

Mine was actually the 12-year sherry oak. Day 23 of my 2017 advent calendar. The nose had sherry aromas – fruity, with caramel undertones; a pleasant smell. The entry was smooth and cool. No significant mid-palate presence. A long finish with minimal burn. Flavors of plums/grapes/apples on the finish, but not overwhelmingly so. A long, pleasant aftertaste. It's good. I wouldn't refuse a glass, but I wouldn't actively seek it out either. I'd prefer something with more traditional Scotch character and less sherry influence.

My father's favorite, and one of the first single malts I tried, thanks to him. Its smooth and mellow character influenced my whiskey preferences to this day. It's a household staple that I'm comfortable sharing with most people, even those who claim not to like whiskey, as its smoothness can change their minds.

A companion and I shared several drams last night during a tasting session. This was the standout: a 1980s Macallan 10. The aroma was incredible, full of dried fruits and nuts. The taste was deeply intricate, featuring orange peel and nuts. It had a thick, oily consistency that coated the palate. Out of the 12 I tried last night, this ranked first. Thanks to my companion for opening it!

The sweet flavors and aroma from the sherry casks are pleasant on the initial taste, but the finish is exceptionally rich and potent, almost to the point of overwhelming the drink itself. I suggest adding a few drops of water to reveal more nuanced flavors.

A light, fruity Speyside sherry expression. Numerous floral and fruit flavors are well-integrated. The medium-length aftertaste reveals the oak.

This marked the initial spirit I genuinely savored. It's simply velvety and packed with taste!