The eternal conundrum of old and young whisky. This one is both, since it’s only 8 years old, but has been around for almost 30 years. Another one I got during Covid for the Weird Whisky Tasting I hosted back then.

Scapa is always a bit of a weird one, since it’s not one you find often. Especially these older independent ones. What is also incredible is the massive ABV of 64%. This could be rocket fuel, or a complete dud.

Funny with these rare bottles, there are seven ratings of this bottle, of which 6 are from my bottle and bottle-share group…

Sniff:
A rather crisp, heathery dram that does make me think about Scotland’s coast. A windy, sandy morning on the beach, so to say. There are hints of barley and apple in the background. Some vanilla and the tiniest hint of charcoal behind it all. Hints of straw and barley start getting stronger and stronger.

Sip:
I think it has mellowed a little bit over the time it’s been open, but it still is a rather strong whisky. Fiery with white pepper and red chilies. Apple cores, barley and straw. Some coastal salinity.

Swallow:
The finish is slightly more gentle, but still sharp. It mellows quickly to leave a lovely, slightly oily texture. A hint of vanilla and baked apple. Sunflower oil, with a hint of honey as well.

I think it was a lot more fiery when I first opened bottle. However, it’s been slowly being emptied over the last year or two, which means it’s mellowed a little bit. I think that is a good thing. It’s quite coastal, but very different to how Springbank and Islay whiskies are coastal. More the chill crisp of the north coast. An enjoyable dram, but not stellar by any means.

85/100