WHISKY REVIEW: OBAN 11 YEAR OLD – SOUL OF CALYPSO

Each year, Diageo’s Special Releases bring something new and imaginative to the table, and the 2023 lineup – titled Spirited Xchange – explored global influences, artistic inspiration, and bold cask experimentation.

For Oban, this meant stepping into the world of music and carnival – specifically the infectious rhythms and vibrant soul of Caribbean calypso. It’s not just a marketing spin. The whisky itself reflects this spirit with remarkable depth and flair.

Finished in Caribbean pot still rum casks, Oban 11 brings together Scotland’s coastal elegance with the lively, sun-drenched sweetness of the tropics.

Tasting Notes – Where Highland Meets Island Vibes

Nose: The first whiff is unmistakably Oban – briny sea air, citrus peel, and gentle smoke. But linger a little longer, and the rum influence begins to emerge: ripe banana, molasses, and a floral, almost perfumed fruitiness. There’s a tropical warmth here that feels exotic without overpowering the core malt character.

Palate: A rich, mouth-coating dram with waves of flavour. Sweet pineapple, caramelised sugar, and vanilla are front and centre, wrapped in soft smoke and a thread of maritime salinity. There’s a balance of sweet and savoury that feels like Oban in holiday mode – familiar but free-spirited.

Finish: Medium to long, with lingering notes of ginger, pepper, oak spice, and a whisper of rum-soaked fruitcake.

This is not a whisky that shouts – it dances. Smooth, rhythmic, and with an unmistakable groove that invites you back for another sip.

Packaging and Presentation

The artwork on the bottle and box is a celebration of calypso itself – bright, musical, and full of motion. The label depicts sea creatures dancing to drums and steel pans, drawing a playful connection between the sea around Oban and the Caribbean influence in the cask. It’s a bottle that looks just as good on your shelf as it tastes in your glass.

Perfect for:

• Collectors: As part of the annual Diageo Special Releases, this is a limited-edition bottling with strong future potential.

• Rum cask fans: If you enjoy the sweetness and vibrancy of rum finishes but still want structure and complexity, this delivers in spades.

• Oban lovers looking for something new: It’s recognisably Oban, but turned up and tropical.

• Gifting: The packaging and story make it an excellent gift for whisky lovers looking for something off the beaten path.

RRP £140 – But We Have It for Less

Here’s the real twist: while this bottle launched with an RRP of £140, we’re currently offering it for just £69.

That’s more than 50% off the retail price – and once it’s gone, it’s gone.

Whether you’re looking to stock up, add to your collection, or just enjoy a great dram at an unbeatable price, this is your chance to grab a standout whisky without the premium price tag.

Stock is limited. Get yours before the carnival ends.