Glen Scotia 9 Year Old 2008 Kintra

Glen Scotia is always a bit exciting for me, for it is often (in my opinion) hit or miss. And I have had as many hits as misses with this malt from Campbeltown, so there you go… This young single cask was bottled by Kintra, the Dutch independent bottler run by the always charming Erik Molenaar (who we also know of the Wagging Finger Distillery of course).

Lovely fruity notes on gooseberries, blood oranges, toffee, almonds and fresh figs. There is also a note of wood glue, but it works enhancing in this case and certainly is not an off-note. Some candied pineapple and even something like yoghurt, but I cannot quite put the finger on it. Soft spices and a green note. Crème brûlée. And the obligatory trace of smoke. This nose is outstanding.

The attack is sturdy and a veritable kick to the teeth. Oh, my, not for wet blankets! But once the taste buds have had a change to recover, you’ll be treated to a delicious palate of toffee, almond paste, candied pineapple, gooseberries and the sap of a pine tree. The peat offers a rather grand smokiness, but does not dominate. It is surprisingly bright and fruity.

The finish is very long and soothing.

It is not an exaggeration to say this Glen Scotia is complex, wonderful and thus recommended. Around 75 EUR. No brainer.

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