Scapa 23 Year Old 1979 Chieftain’s Choice

Time for a 23 Year Old Scapa on a sherry cask, that I have put head-to-head to a 22 Year Old, matured on an Amontillado sherry cask, bottled three years earlier. This one is bottled at cask strength, though, so quite different most likely.

The nose is relatively soft and not very expressive. Grassy with vanilla, apple sauce and some oatmeal with raisins. Caramel and a hint of lime-tree blossom tea. A bit dusty as well, with a slight metallic edge which I find not too pleasant.

On the palate, it does make a very good impression. Sturdy body, nice spiciness with warm peppers and nutmeg. Toffee and oranges. Reminds me a bit of Grand Marnier, the liqueur. Hints of coffee. Roasted almonds, too. A bit of smoke. Pleasant, indeed.

The long, warm finish offers mostly dried fruits and some smoke.

Pity about the weak nose, but on the palate, this is a very pleasant malt.

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