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.