Orkney 2007 (Sherwoods)

This is the second bottling from the Netherlands-based bottler Sherwoods (the first was a Craigellachie 2007).

Orkney Islands 2007, that’s probably an undisclosed Highland Park. It seems to exist at full strength(a whopping 63.7% ABV) as well as 46%.

Orkney Islands 11 yo 2007 (63,7%, Sherwoods 2018, bourbon hogshead #0036/2007, 329 btl.)

Nose: hints of porridge with lactic notes up front, but they fade. Then flints and pine needles, wet chalk and minerals. Brighter notes (green apples) in the background, as well as some sweet lemon candy, bread and vanilla custard. Nosing quite well at full strength.

Mouth: very pure, slightly sharper now, mostly on mineral notes and lemons. Zesty grapefruit, limoncello, kirsch. Hints of smoke and a hint of salt. Strong of course, adding water makes it rounder and more balanced.

Finish: long, drier, with chalk, vague sweetness and citrus zest.

Slightly aggressive at full strength but nicely balanced with a drop of water. Good selection. Around € 75 from Whiskybase for instance.

Score: 86/100