Arran OddPopp 15 YO Bourbon Barrel

Arran OddPopp 15 YO Bourbon Barrel, 56,5 %

This is the third 'music whisky' released in Norway over the past three years. In 2013 we saw the Cragganmore Frank Znort Quartet-15th Anniversary Old Malt Cask, then in 2014 we had the Clan Denny Frank Znort Quartet 16 YO Craigellachie. Now we get the Arran OddPopp 15 YO Bourbon Barrel.

The guy behind it all is Jon Bertelsen, well-known importer of fine whisky, cognac and beer (and most everything that is tasty). While the two first music whiskies were connected to the very big quartet Frank Znort Quartet, this Arran release is connected to guitar based rock/americana band OddPopp.

This is a single cask release, distilled on 1999-07-19, matured in bourbon barrel 1999/017, and bottled on 2014-12-10. The total outturn was 183 bottles. The band selected the barrel themselves, and I must say they show good taste in whisky.

This is an exclusive release for Norway, so no luck finding this in Sweden. It is still available in Norway though, at NOK 995 (item number 2228201). Apparently the official launch of the whisky is scheduled later this Autumn, but it's out there!

Nose (23/25): Delightful and playful bourbon nose. Vanilla, malt, mild caramel and a soft fruitiness. Oranges and orange zest, with a whiff of fresh apples right at the edge of perception.

Taste (23/25): This is candy for grown-ups. Soft and fruity sweetness tempered by white pepper, rich maltiness and a sprinkling of spices.

Finish (23/25): Long and sweet finish. The sweetness turns towards honey and a richer mouthfeel in the final stages.

Balance (22/25): One of the very best whiskies I have had from Arran. If you are patial to bourbon matured whiskies, then you cannot go wrong with this fine dram.

Score (91/100)

Sláinte! - Thomas