Orkney 11 Year (2011), Thompson Brothers
Whisky: Orkney 11 Year (2011), Thompson Brothers
Country/Region: Scotland/Islands
ABV: 50%
Cask: Refill Hogshead, Refill Caol Ila Hogshead (6 mo.)
Age: 11 Years (Distilled 2011, Bottled 2022)
Nose: Maritime, chalk, limestone, kelp, dehydrated citrus, charred driftwood, dried grass, subtle medicinal herbs.
Palate: Medium-bodied, gentle, citrus and chalk, maritime, oily tinned fish, citrus sorbet, hay, hints of coal, rust, and medicinal herbs.
Finish: Medium-length, mild, citrus and sea.
Score: 5-6
Mental Image: Beach Scavenging
Narrative & Notes: The aroma was mild and straightforward, with a classic maritime profile of chalk, limestone, saltwater pools, kelp, and oily tinned fish. Citrus complimented the brine as hints of charred driftwood and dried grass appeared between dehydrated lemon slices, the occasional orange, and a hint of bubblegum. A touch of tobacco sometimes appeared while subtle medicinal herbs played around the edges— I see you, mugwort! Medium-bodied, though on the lighter side, the flavor profile was gentle with citrus and chalk. Mellow maritime delights popped with oily tinned fish and a lemony citrus sorbet to cleanse the palate. Hay and medicinal herbs arrived at the end with hints of banana, coal, and rust. The finish was medium-length and mild with citrus and sea notes.
I initially tried this blind, and while the notes were classic Highland Park, I was surprised how far in the background some of the typical coal and steamship fell. Perhaps the barley had a lower peat level, or the adjustment of the malt to 50% abv cooled off the industrial notes so more mellow citrus and maritime delights could emerge. A few of the candy notes verged on bubblegum or banana, which felt slightly askew from the other flavors when they appeared. I was not surprised to see that this was not cask strength; it was pretty gentle, if not light, on the palate. The sort of dram I like to sip on at the end of a hot day or just mindlessly unwind with on the couch.
Overall, friendly and beachy, the artwork on the bottle was altogether more terrifying than the malt inside.
Image Credit: Abbey Whisky
