Glen Scotia 15 Year Old 2003 Campbeltown Malts Festival 2019

I guess every whisky region by now has its own festival right? So, hence also does Campbeltown. This year will be very different, but last year Glen Scotia released this 15 years old malt – at cask strength – finished on rum casks for 8 months.

Impressive nose with the typical dirty edges of Glen Scotia on the one hand, but on the other lovely, quasi tropical fruit. Somewhat waxy and a lovely, modest smokiness. Hint of pineapple, kiwi and mandarin, but mostly bright lime. Chalk and pebbles. Reminds me a bit of old Springbank, to be honest. And it’s very good!

Bull’s eye on the palate! Very mineral on pebbles, hessian sack, light sour peat, but beautifully balanced by lots of citrus and some pineapple, followed by a splash of brackish water and some bitter grape piths. The smoke becomes more intense and quite pleasant. Myrrh! I think it’s the very first time I get this in a whisky. Brilliant. Now I am reminded more of Kilkerran, in fact. Well, it’s also Campbeltown (note to self: stop your nonsense). Truly lovely balance.

The finish is intense and long, salty versus sweet. Smoky till the end.

Wow, this is truly an impressive Glen Scotia. Recommended.

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