Wee Drammers – Special Drams

Dick had been travelling and took advantage of the duty free shops to acquire two drams for our Wee Drammers’ tasting, held at his place on Tuesday, February 24th. Unfortunately (or, maybe fortunately?) there were only five members able to attend this first tasting of the year, ski hills being more attractive for three absentees. Dick, actually Maryanne (?!), provided the usual plates of delicious appies to pair with the drams.

First up, our 20Xth dram, was The Balvenie: The Creation Of A Classic Single Malt Whisky, part of The Balvenie Stories range and a lovely tribute to Speyside whisky-making tradition.

The Balvenie “The Creation of a Classic” is a smooth and inviting Speyside that celebrates the pioneering spirit of Malt Master David C. Stewart, who helped define modern cask finishing techniques. This expression is initially matured in American oak ex-bourbon casks, developing rich vanilla and honeyed malt character, and then finished in Oloroso sherry casks, which add depth with dried fruit, spice, and gentle oak warmth.

On the nose you’ll find aromas of vanilla, honey, and warm spice, followed by a palate combining smooth caramel, toffee and subtle spice, balanced by a dry-oak finish that lingers with elegant sweetness. Bottled at 43% ABV, it’s a beautifully balanced and approachable whisky — ideal neat or with a few drops of water to open up its layers.

Number 20X was next: Laphroaig: Four Oak is a distinctive Islay single malt that showcases the distillery’s signature peaty character with added complexity from an unusual maturation process. It’s crafted by blending single malts aged in four different types of oak casks — ex-bourbon barrels, quarter casks, virgin American oak and European oak hogsheads — which brings layers of smoky, maritime intensity together with sweet, woody notes.

On the nose it typically offers bold peat smoke with warm vanilla and stewed fruit, while the palate delivers smoky oak embers, hints of seaweed and pine, rounded by a smooth, velvety texture. The finish lingers with peaty smoke and a touch of salty liquorice. Bottled at 40% ABV and originally released as a travel-retail exclusive, Four Oak is approachable yet complex — ideal for fans of robust (but not too robust), smoky whiskies looking for something with an oak-driven twist. A surprisingly lovely dram!

Both whiskies are only available at Duty Free and therefore non obtainable locally…… however, we thoroughly enjoyed the experience albeit having over-indulged just a wee bitty.

Submitted by:
Tony Ransom.