Blended Scotch Whisky Release 2024 40 Year Old - Living Souls
Mellow, Sweet Fruity2025-02-08
Smell
The exciting complexity of this whisky is revealed from the very first nosing. Exotic fruits such as papaya, apricot and orange rise to the nose, accompanied by a subtle maritime breeze. Cool smoke is subtly noticeable - not intrusive, but harmoniously embedded. A fine citrus note, perhaps lemon, brings additional freshness. There are also hints of heather and a subtle spiciness. The aroma is not overly intense, but extremely inviting and complex.
Taste
On the palate, the whisky unfolds in all its splendour: oily, voluminous and wonderfully balanced. The tropical notes continue - pineapple and mandarin provide a juicy fruitiness, while a subtle spice of white pepper adds excitement. The smoke remains present but restrained - cold and finely interwoven with a nutty note of roasted almonds. A hint of BBQ sauce adds a slightly sweet and savoury nuance that rounds off the overall impression perfectly.
Finish
The finish is medium to long, with a great balance of wood, earth and freshness. The oak is present but not dominant, rather it provides a pleasant structure. An unexpected but extremely exciting effect is the minty-fresh smoky note that is noticeable in the aftertaste. There are also fine pine needles and a slight saltiness, which give the whisky an interesting maritime depth.
Thoughts
What makes this 40-year-old whisky so special is its unexpected freshness. Instead of the heavy wood notes that often dominate, a wonderful interplay of tropical fruits, herbs and smoke is revealed here. The whisky remains elegant throughout, gently descending down the throat and leaving a lasting impression. Anyone looking for a mature yet lively and multi-layered whisky should definitely try this drop.