The 2022 Diageo Special & Rare collection is known as "Elusive Expressions", drawn from some of Scotland’s most interesting, legendary distilleries and curated by Master Blender Dr Craig Wilson, portrays the otherworldly beings which have fiercely protected the heartlands of remote Scottish distilleries for an eternity, according to our ancient fables and the mythical creatures come to life revealing their true characters. This year each bottle has its own unique QR code which, when scanned, takes you on a multi-sensory experience that tells you the story of the whisky, the mythical creature behind the artwork, and gives you some tasting notes to prompt your nose and palate along the way. The label artwork follows almost as a sequel to the 2021 range, revolving once again around the theme of mythical beasts and stories. Illustrator, Ken Taylor, returns again and is joined this year by digital visualisation artist, Kevin Tong.

Oban 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700ml (Special Release 2022) was matured first in refill and new American oak, then finished in Amontillado-seasoned casks. 

The nose has an appealing and enticing malty base, accompanied with hints of heather, petrichor, and the slight brininess of Amontillado. The palate is pleasantly dry, slightly spicy, again a little salty, and satisfying.

The Finer Details
Style - Scotch Whisky
Country - Scotland
Region - Highlands
Bottle Size - 700ml
ABV - 57.1%