Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Linkwood (Speyside)
Aged 17 Years
Finished in Oloroso Casks
55% ABV (110 proof)
~$90 (sample provided)
Color: light golden brown
Smell: very nice. It's sweet (raisins and honey), nutty, and a little musty/dusty. There's also a hint of oak influence in the form of baking spices.
Taste: very nice. Mouth coating sweetness on entry, and very soft/smooth/elegant (not actually tastes, but this is what came to mind) throughout. The sherry influence presents with raisin and honey sweetness - picture drizzling honey over the sugar-coated raisins in Raisin Bran cereal. Subtle nuttiness, muted baking spices, and oak lend complexity to the midpalate and finish, but the lingering flavor is very much sherry sweetness. Lovely.Overall: Solid "B+/A-"for me, and recommended. The flavors integrate beautifully, and this is a very smooth customer at 55% ABV - no water required. My only gripe is that the sherry influence, while lovely, shines a bit brighter than anything else. It tastes amazing, and it's not one-dimensional by any means. However, there's a little less complexity here than you may be seeking in a 17-year Scotch.
