Macallan 18 Year Old Fine Oak

This past Christmas I received the Macallan 12, 15, and 18, all in the Fine Oak range, from a very generous friend. The notes of each were taken in direct comparison of one another in one sitting.

Nose: Similar notes as 15 year old (caramel and maple syrup) but with an added herbal characteristic. Also, the caramel and maple syrup seem to be accompanied by cookies (brown sugar and butter).

Palate: More refined than the younger counterparts - easy drinking. Expectedly, the oak is much more prominent. Touch of sweetness holding up its light floral nature.

Finish: Decent finish with rich oak and herbal notes returning. Still a bit short.

Competent and enjoyable. Easy going and easy drinking, however, the bit of complexity it has holds your attention. The major, MAJOR downfall of this whisky is the ridiculous price. $130-160 is far too much money for what's in the bottle. I understand that older means more money, however, the quality of this is that of $50-60, honestly. Maybe I'm being too harsh, but it's the way I feel about this whole range.

Overall, the Fine Oak range that I've tasted has not shown itself to be something I would consider seeking out. Luckily this was a gift. Of course I am extremely grateful for the gift as I believe whisky, good or bad, is an education, which could be considered priceless. The main theme amongst the 12, 15, and 18 year old is that of nondescript flavor. None of the whiskies really made an impression on me and I've found it difficult to recall specific flavors.

Wow, I feel like I just did some serious Macallan bashing. Sorry if that was annoying.

Macallan 18 year old Fine Oak 85/100

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