Blair Athol 2008 14 YO (Single Malt Dreams)

Blair Athol 2008 14 YO (Single Malt Dreams), 54.7 %

Here is a fairly new release (yeah, I’m a bit slow at times) from Norwegian independent bottler Single Malt Dreams. Initially matured in a refill ex-bourbon hogshead, and then finished in a single ex-Islay (Laphroaig) quarter cask (cask #303305A). Limited to 124 bottles. It was distilled April 2008 and bottled April 2022.

This Blair Athol 2008 14 YO (Single Malt Dreams) is still available to buy in Norway at NOK 1460 (14542901).

Nose: Lemon merengue and rich vanilla cream. Softly oaky. White pepper and a pinch of earthy cinnamon. With time toasted oak, luxurious chocolate and the barest whiff of smoke. With further time also a little floral and green in character.

Taste: Rich and full bodied. Fruity and spicy up front. Some oakiness and astringency here. The lemon from the nose does follow through to the palate.

Finish: Medium long finish. Rather dry - dark chocolate and toasted oak - even some soot and peat now. Remains somewhat spicy. Then a wave of juicy fruitiness towards the end. A lovely landing.

Comment: I’m definitely becoming a Blair Athol fan.

Score 87/100

Sláinte!
-Thomas