Rosebank 21 Year Old 1990 Special Release 2011

In 2011 Diageo released seven whiskies in their so-called Special Releases. A 32 Year Old Brora, a 12 Year Old Lagavulin, a 12 Year Old Caol Ila Unpeated, the Port Ellen 11th Release, a 25 year Old Knockdu, a 20 Year Old Port Dundas single grain and this 21 Year Old Rosebank. One thing they have in common. They are uncommonly expensive. This Rosebank fetched £180 upon release. Today, you pay almost double. But is it any good?

Despite the ABV, the nose starts soft on citrus and freshly cut grass. Wild flowers, bergamot oil (something I have recently discovered), mint and almond flakes. A bit of apricots, kiwi and even lychee. Very fragile, though.

On the palate, the citrus is soon joined by honey, icing sugar and the kiwi returns. This does not need water. Midpalate, it is all about the citrus yet again. Sugared lime juice. Green peppers. Feisty!

The finish is medium long on citrus and a surprising bit of smoke.

This is a grand, albeit very typical, but much too expensive Rosebank.

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