Here’s a full-bodied single malt for that full-bodied Cuban or Nicaraguan cigar. The Oban 14 Year is a “West Highland Malt” and a real classic in its own right. Both on the nose and the palate it comes across as a marriage of the sweet Island character and the soft and fruity Highlands.
It has recognizable Cognac notes on the nose, which I found interesting. There was also some sulfur and peat. A certain rubbery note was also lingered toward the end with a distinct impression of sweetness. The palate is rich and rewarding. It’s smooth, velvety with a texture that coats the alcohol perfectly. Look for sweet notes to start with, yielding to more bitter peat notes and a mild smoke finish.
I found this beauty elegant, fine, and satisfyingly rich. My Serie D No.4’s accompanied this to perfection… a fine moment.
Edward Bixler
October 4, 2006 at 4:51 pm
I enjoy the Oban 14 quite a bit, but I find I really have to be in the mood for it. At times I find it to be a bit too salty. However, when I am in the mood for this wonderful drink, there isn’t much out there that can compete.
Matt Voorhees
December 21, 2008 at 1:24 pm
Oban is the pinnacle of Single Malt perfection. It is truly the best of what the West Highlands have to offer. It has a balanced set of characteristics found in nearly all scotches – peaty but not too much, smoky but not over the top, fruity but salty as well. The finish is long and pleasant. Extremely smooth and well worth the price, Oban is a top scotch for pairing with a fine, full-bodied cigar.