Glen Scotia - Cask 1534

Some bottles aren't for sale. This is one of them.

During a visit to Campbeltown last year, we were treated to something rather special. Thanks to a friend, we were able to taste this distilley exclusive from Cask 1534: a first fill bourbon barrel distilled in 2015 and bottled in 2025 at natural cask strength. Just one of those moments that remind you why whisky people are the best people.

Whisky overlooking the bay

We got sublimely lucky with sunny weather because, as we all know, Scotland is notorious for its downpours. Instead we were able to sit in the sun, and as opposed to rain, it was pouring whisky!

We rented a lovely home overlooking the Campbeltown bay.

I - On the nose

I know I your surroundings influence your sense but I swear I can pick up on the ocean water. Combined with warm and inviting, vanilla and fresh oak. That gentle coastal breeze behind me really pushes it over the edge. There's a sweetness here that feels earned rather than added, the kind that comes from ten years quietly doing its work in good wood.

II - The palate

At 53.7% it has presence, but it doesn't bully you. Honey, green apple, a touch of barley sweetness and that signature Glen Scotia coastal character: slightly briny, slightly mineral. A few drops of water would probably open it up beautifully.

III - The finish

Medium to long, warm and dry. The oak comes through more clearly here, with a pleasant peppered finish and that Campbeltown earthiness that lingers just long enough.

IV - The verdict

This is Glen Scotia doing what Glen Scotia does best. Unpretentious, honest, coastal whisky with real character. The first fill bourbon cask suits the distillery's style perfectly, letting the spirit speak rather than drowning it in wood influence.

If you ever find yourself in Campbeltown, make sure you go to visit the distillery.

TASTING NOTES - GLEN SCOTIA CASK 1534
NOSE Vanilla, fresh oak, sea air, soft toffee	PALATE Honey, green apple, brine, white pepper and butterscotch
FINISH Warm and oaky, coastal and medium long	STYLE First fill Bourbon, cask strength, 10 years
DISTILLER Glen Scotia, Campbeltown	AVAILABILITY Distillery exclusive