Savoring the Past: A Super Tasting of Rare and Vintage Single Malts
Twice a year, for at least a decade now, whisky enthusiasts have had the chance to enjoy “super tastings” at the whisky bar Dr. Jekyll’s Pub in Oslo. The tastings mark the closing of their “tastings calendar” for the first and second half of the year. So, a special experience in June and December every year.
I’ve had the superb joy and pleasure of attending most of these tastings, and below you will find my tasting notes from the super tasting this last December, on 2022-12-19 to be specific.
From my tasting notes below you will get at least some idea of what to expect at these super tastings. The staff at Dr. Jekyll’s, with super tasting general Tommy leading the charge, maintain these tastings are their way of giving back to the rich whisky community they have been instrumental in creating in and around Oslo. Thus the pricing of these tastings is quite reasonable, and the tastings always sell out - quickly.
The setup is typically four or five fine whiskies, and one mystery dram. In between the whiskies we get clues as to what the mystery dram might be, and by the end of the tasting all attendees hand in a form where they’ve guessed spirit type, age, ABV, distiller, and country. This adds a lot of fun and generates great discussion amongst the attendees. The winner gets plenty of honor and a dram at the bar.
Banff 1971 38 YO Old & Rare, 53.4%
Distilled March 1971, matured in a single ex-sherry cask, and bottled August 2009. Limited to 324 bottles. Bottled by Douglas Laing.
Nose: The aroma is gentle and inviting, with delicate notes of vanilla, giving way to a subtle dusty quality. The floral elements are complemented by an assortment of tropical fruits, making for a beautifully balanced nose.
Taste: The palate is full-bodied and rich, boasting a lively pepper fizz and a touch of ginger. There is a slight dryness present, which complements the other flavors and adds depth to the overall experience.
Finish: The finish is long-lasting, retaining its rich character while showcasing fruity, dusty, and fresh elements. A dry sensation lingers, leaving a sophisticated impression.
Score: 93/100
Linkwood 1954 56 YO (GM), 40%
Distilled 1954-02-07, matured in a single 1st fill sherry butt (cask #371), and bottled 2010-11-24. Limited to 137 bottles. Bottled by Gordon & MacPhail.
Nose: The aroma is exquisite and delicate, featuring notes of lacquer and leather intertwined with red berries. The scent of a cigar box combines with tropical nuances and a dusty undertone to create a truly captivating nose.
Taste: The palate is medium-bodied and dry, with pronounced leather and oak flavors dominating. The warmth of cinnamon is accompanied by plums, figs, and dates, adding complexity and depth to the taste.
Finish: The finish is long and transitions into a slightly dirty and green sensation. The dryness and leather notes persist, leaving a lasting impression.
Score: 89/100
Talisker 25 YO (2020), 45.8 %
This is the 2020 edition of the Talisker 25 YO.
Nose: The nose is marked by a very mild pepper and smokiness, which is accompanied by inviting chocolate undertones. The aroma is intriguing and sets the stage for the tasting experience.
Taste: The palate is full-bodied, with a delightful pepperiness and wood smoke. The perfect balance of pepper and chili heat is complemented by a mild smokiness, creating a harmonious taste profile.
Finish: The finish is long, with a satisfying blend of fruitiness and peppery spice. It leaves a pleasant warmth that lingers and invites you to take another sip.
Score: 91/100
Laphroaig 2001 18 YO Signatory Vintage, 59.3%
Distilled 2001-02-14. matured in a single refill ex-sherry butt (cask #319), and bottled 2019-08-21. Limited to 606 bottles. Bottled by Signatory Vintage for La Maison du Whisky.
Nose: The aroma is unmistakably Laphroaig, with a bold driftwood smoke and iodine character. The earthy vanilla, bread crust, and cacao nibs are underscored by the distinct scent of used bandages, creating a complex and fascinating nose.
Taste: The palate is full-bodied and offers a feisty and peppery experience. The chili heat adds a layer of excitement, making for an adventurous tasting journey.
Finish: The finish is long, fiery, and fresh, leaving a powerful impression that commands attention and respect. This Laphroaig promises to be a memorable experience for all who encounter it.
Score: 92/100
The mystery dram
This time around the mystery dram turned out to be a wonderful 5 YO Løitens Single Cask Aquavit matured in an ex-sherry cask. Great stuff!
See you at the next tasting?
Sláinte!
- Thomas
