Glen Scotia Victoriana

Glen Scotia is “the other Campbeltown” distillery. Most people know the Springbank distillery which sells whisky under the Springbank, Longrow, and Hazeburn brands, as well as the Glengyle distillery which is owned by Springbank owners J & A Mitchell and makes Kilkerran. Glen Scotia isn't quite as well-known as the two aforementioned Mitchell-owned distilleries. Glen Scotia has been shut down and revived a few times throughout its history. Current owners Loch Lomond Group created the Victoriana expression to mimic a Victorian era style of malt whisky. I’m not sure what that means, but I’m looking forward to tasting it. I'll admit that some of the website copy has me a little worried: "Each cask is chosen for its rare character and exceptional maturity." That's all fine and good, but no age statement is given. Hmmmmm...

• Nose: coastal, briny, a hint of peat, a fresh bread aroma (yeast?), eucalyptus, caramel, some vanilla, red fruits (cranberries) and dried fruits (raisins, dates) coming through after a few minutes rest in the glass
• Palate: rich, waxy, toffee, a bit of tobacco, red fruits, brine, oak, vanilla
• Finish: long, warming, sweet, toffee, green apples, a hint of cotton candy lingering.
• Thoughts: This is a fascinating whisky. The nose is especially complex. I would not hesitate to purchase a bottle. This is not a casual whisky; it’s definitely a “sit and think” type of whisky. Inasmuch as the marketing blurb left me unimpressed and aroused some suspicion, this whisky delivers the goods. Victoriana really does have an "Old School" vibe going on and I'm a fan. If I can locate a full bottle (this review is from a 50 ml sample) at the current Ontario price (approx. $99) I’d buy a bottle without hesitation.

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