Oban Distiller’s Edition 2023 Double Matured in Montilla Fino Casks (43% ABV, 750 mL)

Fino is the driest variety of Sherry. It is produced entirely under flor and does not experience any oxidative aging. Montilla-Morales is a wine-producing zone about 100 miles northeast of Jerez, producing Sherry-like wines. It’s located just south of Cordoba and directly north of Malaga.

Wines produced in Montilla-Morales are, stylistically, almost identical to the Sherry wines in Jerez. However, they cannot be called Sherry since that name is a protected designation of origin reserved for wines produced in Jerez.

Montilla-Morales is drier and hotter than Jerez. Unlike Jerez, whose wine production is mainly based on the Palomino grape, in Montilla, most wines are made from Pedro Ximénez. PX grapes tend to be sweeter than Palomino and, in the hot, dry climate of Montilla Morales, produce Sherry-like wines with elevated alcohol levels.

Like the typical Fino Sherry, these wines are produced under flor. Because of the hot climate, however, the flor tends to be thinner. The wines retain more glycerol than the typical Fino giving them more body and structure. They also tend to be slightly sweeter and less saline than Fino Sherry.

The whisky is fruity on the nose, with slight licorice notes and a hint of salinity.

On the palate are notes of golden raisin and stone fruit, especially apricot. The whisky is smooth and creamy, with an oily quality and a noticeable, fruity sweetness. It’s spicy with cinnamon notes and a bit of pepperiness.

The finish is long, sweet, and creamy, with lingering fruit notes.