Secret Orkney 2008 14 YO cask #148

Secret Orkney 2008 14 YO cask #148, 54.1 %

Released very recently as part of the Autumn 2022 package of expressions from independent bottler the Dràm Mòr Group.

Matured in a refill ex-Chateaux D’Yquem Sauternes cask, so I am assuming French oak on this one - without doubt. Limited to 305 bottles.

The official tasting notes include the text “this Orcadian spirit that has rested in Islay oak”. Not quite sure what they mean by this, but it could indicate that the distillate itself is not peated on this whisky, but rather that the peatiness comes from the use of an ex-Islay cask (i.e. a cask that has previously held peated whisky). Who do we know that uses Chateaux D’Yquem Sauternes casks on Islay? Well, Bruichladdich for sure, although they are not allowed to disclose the fact (they used to do years ago though - so we know). Another Islay distillery that provides a lot of “ex-Islay casks” to other distilleries and independent bottlers is Laphroaig. I cannot recall ever having seen them using Chateaux D’Yquem Sauternes casks though (which might just mean they managed to keep absolutely mum about the fact). Anywho..let’s try the whisky!

Nose: Dry with notes of toasted oak, tobacco leaves, old leather, earthy cinnamon and honey. A rich, warm and appealing nose.

Taste: Soft, smooth and at the same time quite rich mouthfeel. Dry notes of white pepper, earthy cinnamon, ginger and lemon zest. Then the soot and wood smoke. And then also red berries and creamy vanilla.

Finish: Medium long finish. Aniseed as well now. And soft green notes mixed with honey and memories of a beach side barbecue.

Comment: Complex and inspiring.

Score 86/100

Sláinte!
-Thomas