Ledaig Oloroso 1996 Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Isle of Mull, Scotland.
Type: Peated Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Matured in Oloroso sherry casks, utilizing peat-dried malted barley and naturally peat-infused water from the distillery's private source.
Age Statement: 19 years old.
ABV: 46.3%.
Color: Soft gold.
Clarity: Uncolored, unchill filtered.
Bottle Design: Features the founding date of Tobermory (1798), with a cap design that allows a view of the Isle of Mull's shape. The bottle comes in a purple color scheme.

Nose: Rich fragrant smoke, toffee caramel, apple, hint of mint, and citrus notes.
Palate: A wave of crackling peat, black pepper, light sherry sweetness (not from residual sugar), and a unique smoky flavor reminiscent of burning seaweed.
Finish: Smooth with a spicy, salty tail, and a smoky finale.
Balance: Well-balanced between smokiness and distillery character, with a light peppery note in the aftertaste.

The Ledaig Oloroso 1996 is part of a range from the Tobermory distillery, known for both its peated (Ledaig) and unpeated expressions. The distillery's use of peat-infused water is highlighted, though the host debunks the myth that this significantly contributes to the whisky's peat flavor.

Tobermory distillery, established in 1798, is one of the oldest whisky distilleries, located on the Isle of Mull. The distillery's location and use of local peat-infused water underscore its deep-rooted connection to the Scottish landscape and whisky-making heritage.

"The influence [of peat-infused water] is a factor of 100 less from the water... the taste the peat taste from the water? Nil. Nothing at all."
"This is a real masterpiece of a well-balanced, not too smoky whisky."
"I was never unsatisfied with a Tobermory whisky... So there was never a disappointment."

The Ledaig Oloroso 1996 is a 19-year-old peated single malt from the Tobermory distillery on the Isle of Mull, matured in Oloroso sherry casks.
It features a soft gold color, uncolored and unchill filtered, with a rich flavor profile of fragrant smoke, toffee caramel, apple, mint, citrus, and a unique smoky note likened to burning seaweed.
The whisky is well-balanced, showcasing both the distillery's character and the influence of the Oloroso cask maturation.
The Tobermory distillery's history and geographical location add to the whisky's cultural significance.
The host praises the whisky's balance and craftsmanship, noting no past disappointments with Tobermory's offerings.

Peat Lovers: Those who enjoy a smoky profile with unique characteristics will appreciate this whisky.
Sherry Cask Enthusiasts: Individuals who favor the complexity added by Oloroso sherry cask maturation.
Experienced Whisky Drinkers: The nuanced balance and depth of flavors make this an excellent choice for seasoned palates.
Collectors: Given its age, unique flavor profile, and the distillery's storied history, this whisky is a worthy addition to any collection.