Part of Diageos 2021 Special Releases, this Oban 12-Year-Old The Tale of Twin Foxes presents a cask-strength rendition of Obans signature maritime-Highland style. Matured in a mix of freshly charred American oak casks (per Diageo publicity) alongside ex-bourbon and refill casks according to certain review sources, it intensifies Obans character with richer wood influence while retaining its coastal brightness.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Pale gold; bright and clear.

Nose: Mellow but evocative: maritime notes of crispy seaweed and crystal salt lead off, with coarse black pepper, lightly smoked white fish, and after resting, hints of sweet chili sauce. A drop of water brings out olive oil tones.

Palate: Soft and mouth-filling, very smooth texture. Youll find fruity and citrus-sweet notes balanced by a pinch of salt mid-palate. The wood influence is felt through fresh-charred oak spice, crunchy wood character, and enough fruit to keep it lively. A dash of water rounds things out, pulling forward fruitier tones.

Finish: Quite long, with spicinessblack pepper shaking through, lingering warmth and sweet oak in the aftertaste. With water, a smoother warmth emerges, more honeyed and mellow.

Collectors Note

This is one of Obans more robust Special Releasesideal for enthusiasts who love coastal single malts but want stronger wood, higher proof, and more adventurous flavour. It stands out among the 2021 Diageo series as a dram that both respects tradition and pushes boundaries. With its high proof and bold wood influence, its less gentle than some Oban bottlings but richly rewarding for those who enjoy complex, assertive whisky.

Technical Details

Distillery: Oban, Highland / Coastal Scotland

Vintage / Distillation Year: 2008

Age Statement: 12 Years

ABV: 56,2%

Maturation: Freshly charred American oak casks, with ex-bourbon and refill casks included in mixes per label / review sources

Volume: 700 ml

Filtration: Non-chill filtered

Release: Diageo Special Releases 2021