Reviews of scotch and world whiskies by a history professor, his wife, bird, and three cats.

Orkney 9 Year, Jack's Pirate Whisky Überfahrt nach Sachsen Part I Cask 108

Orkney 9 Year, Jack's Pirate Whisky Überfahrt nach Sachsen Part I Cask 108

Whisky: Orkney 9 Year, Jack's Pirate Whisky Überfahrt nach Sachsen Part I Cask 108

Country/Region: Scotland/Islands

ABV: 59.5%

Cask: Oak

Age: 9 Years (Bottled 2019)


Nose: Coal dust and brine, spicy with peppercorns and hot mustard; sinus-opening with acrid burnt herbs and green wood smoke, youthful and spirited; water brought a bit of juicy citrus into play.

Palate: Medium-bodied, spirited and spicy, youthful, brine, peppercorns, green wood smoke, slightly bitter caramelization, touch of tobacco and herbal spices, peppery and numbing, raw and slightly feinty; water brought out more fruit and chocolate while mellowing the spicy qualities.

Finish: Medium to long with sizzling peppercorns, brine, and youthful spirit.


Score: 4 (70)

Mental Image: Expired Chocolate Gold Coin Treasure

Narrative & Notes: This was one of the few times I can honestly say that I bought a bottle because of the label. The pirate dog is some S-tier artwork and the price was low enough that I was willing to take a flyer on something to fill out a shipping box. I never clicked with this whisky in the years that I had it; it remained a disappointment, especially considering the excellent art.

The aroma and flavor profile were similar with big brine, peppercorns, and acrid green wood smoke or burnt medicinal herbs. Both were also hot, with a good amount of youthful, spirited vigor—perhaps a bit much so, as the whisky felt unrefined and even a bit feinty at times. Some intriguing vegetal and mustard elements made this a unique experience, but it never really came together and always remained a bit raw. Would time have tamed this whisky? Maybe, though I gave it a good five years. Water did help, but only to cement it as an okay whisky, rather than a bit of a chore.

Overall, one of the more disappointing bottles I have ever purchased— the artwork was amazing though.

Highland Park 11 Year (1989), Signatory Vintage Cask 11582

Highland Park 11 Year (1989), Signatory Vintage Cask 11582

Blair Athol 14 Year (2007), SMWS 68.88 "Living happily ever after"

Blair Athol 14 Year (2007), SMWS 68.88 "Living happily ever after"