Cù Bòcan Limited Edition Virgin Oak

I found some time to go through my sample backlog tonight. Okay, I put off cleaning up from dinner and putting away my hunting gear, but I promise I’ll do it before it’s time to brush my teeth and go to bed. Anyway, a friend from the great state of Virginia sent me this sample. We are both fans of this distillery because of their outstanding value for money. This is their limited line of lightly peated single malts that feature quality casks. The expression uses just that, virgin oak casks. Bottled at 46% ABV, non chill filtered but does have colorant added making it a honey gold. The nose presents peat-smoked fruits on a fresh-cut oak skewer, young and vibrant. Green pears, dried pineapple, cinnamon, and very oaky. The peat complements the oak and fruits, never dominating, fairly well-balanced even though it's young. More peat than smoke. Plenty of vanilla, some green grapes, coconut, apples. Malty/yeasty biscuits, heavy breads. Water softens things slightly, allowing more vanilla and coconut to emerge, with less peat. Possibly some white chocolate. A spicier arrival than anticipated on the palate after the fruity nose. Very spirit-driven, youthful, and it shows. Black pepper, toasted oak, peat, and slightly ashy. The fruitiness of the nose is nearly lost beneath the sheer power of the palate. The smoky aspect of the peat begins to appear, along with some citrus – lemon and orange. Vanilla, pears, and apples. Water helps to manage the spice level but brings the strong oaky character even more to the forefront. A medium-bodied mouthfeel that is very dry and tongue-coating rather than a full mouth coating. The finish is medium long, very oaky with some peat, quite dry. While it’s evident this is a young whisky, this may be the exact profile the distillery was aiming for to properly embody the specter of Scottish legend that is this whisky’s namesake. The peat is neither overdone nor underplayed; it’s just enough to add depth and character to their otherwise mild house style. At roughly $45, this seems a bit pricey for what I would estimate to be 6-8 year old stock, but the fact that it is a limited run of peated malt coupled with virgin oak casks may help to justify that cost (the 12 year old can be found for around $35). Personally, I found this a bit too rough to truly enjoy as a sipper, but it’s nice to see something on the bolder side coming out of the stills and warehouses at this distillery. 3.5 and a thanks to my friend for the sample. Cheers

A couple of months back, I finally added this special TRE release of Cu Bocan to my online order. I was seeking something smooth for sipping a couple of weeks ago and thought this would be a solid choice. This Virgin Oak Cu Bocan was bottled at 46% and cost me around $55 from a London shop. All of the Cu Bocan no-age-statement releases are inspired by a mythical creature said to inhabit the countryside near the Tomatin distillery. Local tales describe it as a smoky entity, leading Tomatin to incorporate a bit of peated malt, adding a distinct dimension to their typical sherried whisky. This expression presents a mellow gold hue and leaves behind substantial legs in the glass. The nose is remarkably vibrant, offering fresh oak and sawdust notes, complemented by citrus undertones and a subtle smokiness. The palate strongly resembles American bourbon, with vanilla and oak flavors, accented by a mere hint of pepper and wood. The smoke is less prominent on the palate than I recall from the original Cu Bocan, but it's present in the aroma and the finish. Speaking of the finish, it's somewhat sharp, which is typical for most NAS whiskies. The young spirit imparts a faint metallic note, but it isn't unpleasant. This is another scotch suitable for bourbon drinkers. I'd like to keep a bottle of this handy for those moments when I desire a bourbon-like experience without actually drinking bourbon, if that makes sense. Overall, it's another successful and affordable dram from the skilled distillers at Tomatin. If I were to compile a short list of favorite NAS whiskies, this one and the standard Cu Bocan would definitely be included. For those in the mood for a lightly smoked, bourbon-like spirit, this is an excellent option. Stars: 3.5-3.75. Best wishes to you all.

It's Friday, and that signifies my weekly one-ounce pour while enjoying Netflix. A friend provided this one. The aroma is quite pleasant, reminiscent of a bonfire that's been out for a few hours. It's subtly smoky and ashy, unlike the intense peat blast from typical strong Islay whiskies. Taste-wise, if tasted blind, I would have guessed it was an unpeated Caol Ila. It has that lemony smoky flavor, with just enough smoke without being overpowering. If you're not in the mood for a heavy smoke experience, or if you dislike peaty whiskey but want something different from sweet sherry types, this is perfect for you. Personally, I feel it hits the sweet spot between not wanting a sweet dessert drink and not wanting to be overwhelmed by intense peat. Thanks to my friend for this. A solid four stars.

The aroma features honey, vanilla, spice, apricots, and almonds. The taste mirrors this, with a light, ashy peat. It's a pleasant combination, and I can't quite recall if I've sampled a virgin oak peat blend before; it's been some time. I recall a Glenglassaugh peated virgin oak that was also quite nice. This is a good pairing and improves as it sits. Rated 4.25.

A strong mature oak aroma, a strong taste initially but a smooth finish. An earthy, clean taste. Peaty but not overwhelmingly so.