Oban Little Bay
Oban Little Bay at Third Base Market & Spirits
Third Base Market & Spirits is pleased to spotlight Oban Little Bay, a craft presentation from the venerable Oban Distillery, one of the oldest and most respected in Scotland. The Little Bay expression, or "An t-Òban" in Scottish Gaelic, refers to the 'little bay' of the coastal town of Oban where the distillery was founded in 1794. This small-batch release employs a unique maturation technique that includes American oak, refill casks with new oak heads, and European oak casks that previously held sherry.
Product Details:
- Name: Oban Little Bay Small Batch Single Malt Scotch Whisky
- Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
- Age: No Age Statement (NAS)
- Region: Western Highlands, Scotland
- Alcohol by Volume (ABV): 43%
Tasting Notes and Technical Description:
Visual Appearance:
Oban Little Bay presents a resplendent amber color with golden highlights. The density, revealed through the formation of slow legs on the glass, speaks of its weight and textural complexity.
Nose (Aroma):
On the nose, the whisky offers an invigorating blend of maritime salinity and dried fruits. It is punctuated by nuances of orange peel, apple crispness, and a dash of mint. These scents are enveloped by the classic Oban smokiness, suggestive of a distant peat fire.
Palate (Taste):
The palate presents a wonderfully complex array of flavors. The first sip is warming and slightly spicy, filled with notes of cinnamon and clove. This is followed by the richness of stone fruits like apricot and a touch of raisin, reminiscent of the sherry casks. At its heart, the maritime and peaty characteristics add an earthy depth.
Finish:
The finish is both long and satisfying, underscored by sweet caramel and oak spices. Fading gently, it leaves a salty imprint on the palate, beckoning for another taste.
Mouthfeel:
The whisky offers a smooth, oily texture that complements its intricate flavors, allowing for a graceful development on the palate.
Third Base Market & Spirits Perspective:
At Third Base Market & Spirits, Oban Little Bay stands as a testament to the intricacy of Highland Scotch produced in a coastal setting. The small-batch, artisanal approach, which combines different cask types, brings forth a level of complexity that makes this expression a must-try for any whisky enthusiast.
Pairing Suggestions:
Oban Little Bay goes particularly well with hearty seafood dishes, such as grilled salmon or oysters. Its salty and smoky notes enhance the flavors of the sea, making for an exquisite dining experience.
Availability:
This unique whisky expression enjoys limited production, and while we strive to maintain availability, it can be subject to seasonal constraints.
In summary, Oban Little Bay offers a complex, layered taste experience that seamlessly marries the earthy, maritime characteristics of its birthplace with the maturation subtleties achieved by meticulous cask selection. For those who appreciate a whisky that tells a story with each sip, this is an offering that should not be missed. Available at Third Base Market & Spirits, we invite you to explore the rich tapestry of flavors that define this remarkable Scotch whisky.