Macallan 15 Year Old Fine Oak

Apparently the Fine Oak series got mixed reviews when it came out. In comparison with the Sherry Oak series, the Fine Oak series uses a mix of bourbon and sherry casks. While Macallan appears to have discontinued the age-statement varieties, and the Sherry series is long gone where I live, New Brunswick is still swimming in Fine Oak bottles, which maybe says a lot right there. I believe this Scotch is naturally colored and, coming in below 46% ABV, chill-filtered.

On the nose the influence of both casks is apparent. Citrus and spice and everything nice. An intense nose for its strength, sweet, with honey and sherry, citrus and even a kind of chocolatey quality.

Also comes in sweet on the tongue, a familiar honey taste. Smooth and eminently drinkable, which I believe was my comment on the 12-Year Sherry as well. I found the finish deeper than what I typically get from a younger spirit, which I guess isn't a surprise.

It's quite approachable and I had no problem finishing the bottle. I did find, particularly when comparing side by side with other whiskies, that the sweetness sometimes seemed a bit weirdly harsh or off. And I also found it a bit ordinary on the tongue for something in its price range ($150 in Canada). I do think this profile is useful for getting someone into single malts, as it balances having personality with staying relatively middle-of-the-road, but I also suspect there are cheaper ways to get that done. Prices will only go up with the discontinuation; I would stay away unless already a big fan.

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