Oban 14 Year Old

As per the summary, this is a very drinkable, interesting dram that balances a smooth richness with some smokey stimulation. You have to take price into consideration though, which is the only negative here - it doesn't quite deserve to be as expensive as it is.

7th January 2020

Delicious with a delightful fruitiness. Great for sipping

31st December 2019

As very much a newcomer to malts, I find this very pleasant. Having tried Glen Scotia 1832 (too much for my first whisky experience), then a NAS Dalwhinnie (too much cinnamon and sharpness for me), and finally striking gold with Talisker 10, I definitely prefer the smokier styles. With the Oban 14, I got orange and vanilla on the nose, a citrus and sweet palate with a hint of salt, followed by a very short, light hay finish. I couldn't get any smoke or peat at all. A pleasant enough dram for a light evening, but I don't think I'll be replacing my bottle once it's finished.

27th November 2019

One of my favourites. Smooth with the right amount of smokey.
Perfect.

18th November 2019

For me it is just a perfect whisky. Smooth, interesting with a lovely briny taste. Delicious!

14th November 2019

This is my current favorite whiskey/Scotch.
Very smooth.

8th November 2019

Punchy and full of deep flavours. Can make you catch your breath. Not too peaty or smokey. Not too sweet. Lovely finish. Very enjoyable and I needed a noticeable change from my glengoyne and glenrothes staples.

6th August 2019

I’m not a Traditional Scotch drinker. But I loved the smooth Oban. Hard to stop drinking it. I highly recommend this brew for a quality Scotch experience.

28th June 2019

Super whisky! Great introduction to the smoky whiskies if you are new to them. Thick and silky. Medicinal notes clear. I smell mint!

14th June 2019

Smokey nose.
Sweet with grilled orange & candied peel taste.
Lightly peated with a salty tail, just enough to remind you it shares its beach waters with the Islands.

Can get this in Macro Supermarket in Belfast for under £38.

11th April 2019

Light dram but still good, a must have in everyone’s collection

6th April 2019

I am extremely sceptical about reviews which proclaim a dram "The nectar of The Gods" or "Tastes of nothing". Sadly, we have all become used to the penny-pinching and downright lies of the new breed of corporate CEOs infecting Scotland, but I don't think Oban has fallen victim to them yet.
Whisky should be assessed on its own terms. It is simply wrong to give a one star review for Glenmorangie because "this tastes nothing like Laphroig!" or to expect a ten year old to stand up to a thirty-five year old for smoothness. The question is, what kind of a whisky is it and how well is it made?
So what IS Oban? It is a medium-bodied, slightly smoky, slightly sweet, quite young single malt. I like it. I find it has a seaside tang and mix of bitter/sweet/peat which is both balanced and well thought-out. I prefer it to Caol Ila 12 because it's a bit different, a bit rough around the edges, with a lemon/pepper/salt aftertaste. Some people have talked about a rough alcohol burn. I don't find it rough. I find it very honest. I get a nice, clean barley-mash taste which Jack Daniels et al could learn from.

20th March 2019

I'm more of an Islay drinker. This is a good dram if looking for something light with a subtle honey and very light smoke flavor upfront that fades rather quickly. Next time I'll be picking up something with a little more balls and character.

18th January 2019

Αν κάποιος θέλει πολύ καπνό και τύρφη, δεν χρειάζεται να μπαίνει στα highlands, υπάρχει το islay. Θα συμβούλευα λοιπόν αυτούς τους φίλους, να μη φορτώνουν το κεφάλι μας με κριτικές που είναι δεδομένο ότι θα είναι αρνητικές, αφού η προτίμησή τους για τα δυνατά καπνικά δεν τους αφήνει να είναι αντικειμενικοί.

27th December 2018

This is a smooth and classy whisky. For those who like smooth and drinkable malt whiskies, this compares with Dalwhinnie and Blair Athol. It is a pleasure.

13th December 2018

It's smooth, nice complexity, but tastes a bit light and bland. Would prefer Lagavulin 16 or a Campbeltown

4th December 2018

This is one of the standard bearers for being balanced while still maintaining complexity and a depth of flavour. If you'd like to delve into peat and aren't sure where to begin, this would be a good target. For reek lovers like myself, there is still enough there to keep you interest, while exposing a wonderful and full palate. An incredible dram for a warm evening.

10th November 2018

This is a standard bearer for balance without having muted the complexity. It's a nice intro to smoke if you aren't sure, and a great everyday dram. Wonderful on a warm summer evening.

9th November 2018

I am really more into peaty and strong whisky, but this one... Woo, really lovely stuff. It is so well balance, with great switness and a perfect vanilla taste. It surprised me and i actually enjoyed it a lot. Will buy a bottle for sure.

9th November 2018

I've had mixed luck with this one. The 1st bottle I got from a supermarket on special offer and I was excited to try it. I kept it like a trophy while I polished of the last of the other bottles. However my first taste left me dissapointed. The finish reminded me of coach sick and was really rather unpleasant. It felt thin in the mouth and not as complex as I'd like a 14yr old to be. That being said I decided to give it another chance at a bar, and it was a completely different creature. Rich and full on the nose, salty sea air and honied. The mouth was full almost oily, a pleasure all round. Perhaps I caught a poor batch?
Reviewer
M.A.Horrell

17th October 2018

One is the best single malts I've tasted.

8th September 2018

It's a nice whisky but it's not made in Oban. It used to be; when I lived there you could visit the 1794 distillery building and see the whisky being made. But it then moved to some gleaming factory in the middle of nowhere. I'm not sure what that did to its quality.

1st July 2018

Tasted it the other night at a whiskey bar for the first time and I had an immediate tasting note of soapiness. I didn't share that with my wife who also had a taste and believe it or not said, "it tastes like soap." Not sure what gives this taste, but have not tasted it in any other single malt.

17th June 2018

I never cease to be amazed by the diversity of opinion on any malt it is truly a matter of individual palate. This to me is on the sweet side of the spectrum with a smoothness which makes it very likeable and a very pleasant smooth afters. I really like Oban

10th June 2018

My son’s favourite whisky. For me there is a fresh sea like quality to the nose and a pleasant sweet aftertaste with a hint of smoke that lingers well. The palate lets it down a little with not a great deal coming through.
Overall the aftertaste makes it a decent if not outstanding choice.

28th May 2018

This is a unique whisky from a unique part of Scotland. You can taste the seaweed and smell the sea. And some herbally citrus. Nice balance of richness and bite.

4th May 2018

Loved it since first tried 15 years ago
Going through whole bottle same evening. Go, Redskins !

18th April 2018

Commercial malt made in volume, for the masses: not very peaty, vaguely smokey, rather sweet, VERY bland and ordinary. Lacking character or any complexity. I'm trying to remember anything at all about it - and cant.

If you think this is the 'good stuff' then lord knows what you drank before. All I can say is get yourself a bottle of lagavulin 16, springbank 10, or Clynlish 14 -You will be amazed.

13th April 2018

This is a dram that can be enjoyed at the beginning of any night, an everyday whisky that is classy. It's delightful and flavorsome. Many a bottle has been polished without even realizing.

17th March 2018

Considering its a 14 yr old love the aroma, very pleasant, smooth tasting. For the price I would it a 41/2

15th February 2018

I love it. It’s complex, it’s fresh (a lot of citrus) it makes you want more and more. For a 14year old and for this price, don’t even think about it. Wish they didn’t color it but regardless, a fantastic dram.

19th January 2018

This is the single malt that launched my exploration of fine scotch, and it is one to which I return frequently--always a happy home coming! Some scotches assault you with peat and smoke, and while I've developed a taste for them, sometimes it's nice to savor a dram of something more demure. Oban fills that niche. The hints of smokiness are certainly there, but as it unfurls on the taste buds, other flavors manifest themselves, as noted above. Oban thus has a subtle complexity that I really enjoy. It's rich in character without being overwhelming.

15th January 2018

Moving from California to the mid west every time I decide to pour a glass it takes me back to being on the beach. If you are opening a new bottle let the glass sit for a bit on the first pour, some of that burn others speak of will mellow out. A nice testament to whiskey's ability to transport you to another place. Never lets me down. Cheers!

9th January 2018

Deadset their are some 'I only drink neat' muppets. Concede a dash of water might tame the ABV but refuse to do it, despite science and master distillers telling you to do so, then whine about 'burn'.

1st January 2018

Not normally a scotch drinker (even though my Dad was born in Scotland). Tried Oban years ago because my grandfather was stationed in Oban during WWI. For a non-scotch drinker, this has become my go-to when I do drink scotch. Can't explain the technicalities, but having tried many scotches, I keep coming back to this. I try to lay off the hard stuff, and my regular drink these days is Founders Dirty Bastard Scotch Ale (wee heavy); if you are looking for something lighter, try it, it won't disappoint.

1st January 2018

The official tasting notes by the "chaps at masters of malt" are v. Accurate. Certainly dominant nose is sweet smokey ester and cut hay with light citrus on the mouth. Well balanced dram indeed.
However what is omitted and really detracts from this is the nasty alcohol burn on the tongue and fumey after taste. Again think the bassociated with ester. Extremely noticable and undeniable. Really detracts from this otherwise exellent dram. Maybe some drops of water would tame this but i only drink neat.
Shame about the nasty burn that means this good dram could never be considered a great dram however it is priced as a great dram.
3 1/2 stars from me.

11th December 2017

I used to live in Sacramento and there was a bar that had over 20 single malts to sample. I was a scotch novice and this was my first, and I was hooked!

I love this spirit and it always my go to, and I have tried many other single malts. The Oran 14 is well balanced

6th December 2017

A great everyday dram without breaking the bank. It is just enough smoke and character to make it interesting. A favorite of mine available in lots of places as well.

30th August 2017

Well, what can I say?? This is in my top 3 whiskies along with Laphroaig, Glenlivet Nadurra in no particular order, it is quite simply a superb whisky, I love the oily characteristics ( add a wee drop of water, give it a swirl, you'll see what I mean ) , the hint of salt too and it is sooooo smooth. I am actually from Oban, but I am no biased by any means, I just love this whisky, and I can get it for £4 for a double in Spoons just about 100 yes from distillery. Oh and my mate is now taking the tours, sooooo, mates rates will prevail for bottles from now on.

28th August 2017

Nice single malt - not as sweet as Mac 12 or as smooth as Mac 18 or as complex as JW Blue (blend) or as Smoky as JW Platinum. Enjoyed it very much, especially for the price.

26th August 2017

Perhaps I'm prejudiced, this being the first Single Malt Scotch I ever tasted. However, after a decade and a half of sampling others, The Oban is still my favorite for casual drinking. The price makes it an affordable Well S.M.S for the Home Bar, but the quality never fails to impress.

12th July 2017

Superb...great vaule for a great dram.

23rd June 2017

Was introduced exactly one month ago, felled in love after the first sip. Since then, have been quietly buying, to build up my hoard.
Where have you been all these years?

alanooi@yahoo.com

15th June 2017

Sweet honey on the nose. Caramel, toffee, honey, and sweet fruits on the palate. Medium smooth finish. Good for the price but I still prefer Glenfiddich 12.

12th June 2017

Smooth and interesting. Dances on the roof of the mouth on its way to the sinuses. Very satisfying.

27th May 2017

Rich, complex and satisfying. Surprisingly full-bodied and interesting for a 14 year.
This is a hidden gem considering the price.

15th May 2017

Delicious Slightly smoky smooth scotch

4th May 2017

My tasting notes for Oban 14 would be soft, smooth, sweet & slightly smoky - but why the added caramel?

29th April 2017

I really enjoy the taste and feel it ranks with other brands more expensive bottles. For the money I feel this is a great choice.

21st April 2017

Together with a maturation period of 14 years and a rich taste, the smoke gives more complexity to this masterpiece of a whisky. Very good. No bitterness. Peat. Sweet and well-balanced. Oban 14 and Talisker 10 have to be the winners among the classic malts.

14th April 2017

Wonderful , just the right balance.

7th April 2017

Its a master whisky -with a clean clear taste -no bitterness and a smooth rounded finish-my new favourite

16th March 2017

Great sipping Scotch, the kind you can get people who don't like Scotch to LIKE it. Negatives would be that it's a little too pricey ($78 tax included @ SPECS - American $'s), and it can sometimes be hard to get (guy said he had to "go in the back-back" to get most recent purchase.

7th March 2017

Wow, what a great well rounded whisky. Sweet, spicey and just a whiff a of smoke....mothers milk!

18th February 2017

My head registers quality when it comes to liquor. There are only two alcohols that do not give me a headache: Oban Scotch and Grey Goose vodka. Every other liquor, including champagne, gives me 3 to 4 day headache after even one drink. So Oban must be very pure. And delicious, it is that.

13th February 2017

Tried this for the first time today, I found the above tasting notes to be spot on as far as the nose is concerned it is indeed rich and smokey but when I tasted it found it to be incredibly smooth and no hint of smoke, an amazing whiskey and definatly one of my favourites.

22nd January 2017

I have always been sceptical when bar staff or reviews have told me of the 'salty' notes of a whisky, the I tried Oban 14. I was astounded that for the first time I could feel the subtle suggestion of salt and the seaside on my palette and nose. I think the tasting notes above are pretty accurate. Possibly a good introduction to smoke/peat as it's not too heavy, reasonable sweet, a little peppery and a really interesting drink.

8th January 2017

Tried last night . Amazing whisky drink it straight.

11th December 2016

I had the pleasure of tasting this while on vacation in Scotland, can't wait to have it again.

6th December 2016

I'm a The Glenlivet man, Oban 14 yr was a birthday gift from my son and daughter in law. I was surprised. It has a stronger bouquet and a sharper after taste the The Glenlivet. A pleasant single malt.

5th December 2016

I truly believe Oban answers that question in the affirmative. You allow this thin liquid to roll around the inside
of your mouth and by some miracle it turns into a vanilla/caramel cream candy. You let it gently slide down your
throat and you are left with a butterscotch-flambe finish. Wow!
4 December, 2016

5th December 2016

I love scotch. Scotchy, scotch, scotch. Here it goes down, down into my belly...

But seriously...

On a cool fall evening, after having shared an intimate night with my lover, I sat fireside in my robe pondering life and sipping on a glass of Oban 14. As I drank the smooth, smoky concoction; I was instantly taken back to a simpler time. Hunting trips with my late father in the low country of Georgia; our English Pointer sniffing out quail as snow fall cascaded down from the heavens. It was that hunting trip, in the safety of our cabin that my father let me try a sip of his scotch whiskey for the first time. Oban 14 brings me back to this every time.

3rd December 2016

Delicious, unique single malt. Oban 14's lingering caramel palate is complemented with almost bourbon-like notes. A dandy at $60.

26th November 2016

Paid over $75.00 assuming price mattered, but found elsewhere under $50.00 This is smooth and has a great finish. It's color doesn't speak to its depth. Will buy again!

23rd November 2016

I love to just take one zip at the time holding it and let the flavor penetrates my mouth and tongue wonderful taste
And flavor bombardment afterwards in the whole mouth worth all the money

19th November 2016

I've tried nearly everything. This is my Gold standard. It's just incredibly balanced. You drink this neat, if you put cubes near it you are a barbarian. ;-) Just can't find enough good to say about this. They have it ALL right.

15th November 2016

I must not have the class, the others have on this site have.
I tried a $16.oo glass on ice,
I wanted to like it, and truly had a tough time picking anything flavorful about it.
I admit, I have little experience in knowing what I'm looking for beside something that taste good,
and too me this did not taste good.
The taste reminded me of the smell of the medicine kit we use to have when I played football.

13th November 2016

Honestly, I don't know what the review were just talking about. I am a fan of Irish whiskey and Kentucky bourbon, and I found this Highland whisky to be balanced and delicious without a hint of smoke.

10th November 2016

A delightful single malt with a smooth finish. So glad I tried it!

7th November 2016

Strong and smokey on the tongue with a likeable flavour but aftertaste slightly harsh for my liking. Certainly worth trying if you haven't tasted before.

22nd September 2016

This is freshly cut grass on a summer's day. Wonderfully light and subtle. An uplifting dram.

8th September 2016

Not bad! But would still prefer a Talisker Dark Storm to it

7th August 2016

As an Islay drinker I found this to be a bit too harsh. It finishes well, vey well, but somewhat aggressive on the way down. If you like the burn of a good burbon you will Ike the whiskey.

24th July 2016

Had this year's ago and it lingered with me as one of the few scotches I could drink neat. Now on vacation I was thrilled to see it in the bar and it reaffirmed my original opinion. Just a delightful smooth taste that fills the mouth with fantastic flavors in the best possible way. This is a scotch I'd recommend to someone who usually doesn't drink whiskey neat. I prefer it over macallan 15 ... way smoother in my opinion.

24th June 2016

If anyone knows of a better whisky than this for under £50, please let me know

18th June 2016

This is still my favorite after 10 years with whisky. It is complex, balanced and full of fantastic flavour. I've tried plenty within the different regions and this still beats the rest for my palate. After weeks of trying other whiskies in bars, at friends and such, I bring this bottle back for a taste and I'm like, "there it is, hello old friend" ;) It will always have a place in my whisky cabinet. Slàinte!!

14th June 2016

My son treated me with this one and it was a hit from the first sip. Right away the sweetness hits and then the flavor

13th June 2016

Its just one of the best drams i have ever tried! I can only recommend it, especially if you like peated whisky but want the peat smoke to be less dominant...

6th June 2016

Beautiful

3rd June 2016

So very smoothe with an excellent finish.
This scotch should only be had neat.

16th May 2016

A delicious smooth scotch

5th May 2016

For me as a beer judge it is the smoothest, lovely aroma and tasting whisky, the creme de la creme in whisky !! I would not need another brand. Although a friend made a whisky with Maris Otter malt and that was exceptional good too !!!

2nd May 2016

I've been rebuilding my single malt collection after a move and just acquired the Oban. Just superb. It's just a hint sweeter and a shade less smokey than Laphroig so I would say smoother but these subjective phrases are difficult to describe. The Oban is simply beautiful.

22nd April 2016

Really good single malt. Very rounded ,smokey and sweet. Very well balanced... I must say. Like it very much and trying to keep in my collection always.

14th April 2016

Smooth single malt. Probably the best that is out there today in this price range. Highly recommend!

5th April 2016

Normally I like very smokey single malts, but sometimes I feel to have something in between. Then Oben 14 is the best. It's smokey, sweet and fruitty. Very well balanced.

17th March 2016

I put this above many more expensive single malts. I've been drinking OBAN for over 20 years.

I went to a good friend's 50th birthday. He is a scotch drinker, usually JB. I gifted him a bottle of OBAN. Two weeks later I saw him again. The first thing he said to me was "Damn you anyway!". I said "What did I do?" He said "You got me hooked on $80.00 a bottle Scotch!"

12th March 2016

I must admit, that I don't actually like it very much. My rating is more of a nod of the head for the quality and execution. I've visited the distillery and had a dram straight from the cask from a 12 year old Oban and it was nice, so I bought a little bottle, much to the consternation of the missus....
If you ever hear someone talk with reverence from Scottish Single Malts and recite the usual clichés about complexity, delicacy, depth and breadth of flavours you might get the idea to give it a try. For a perfect example, look no further. I bought a 20 cl bottle, and while at the end it has gone slightly flat and dull I must admit I am blown away by this whisky. I simply cannot begin to describe the extraordinary depth that is in this liquid.
As it is known, Oban has very long distillation - close to 120 hours, which gives it an estery quality and a special scent and flavour sometimes reminiscent of fruit peels. They also treat their spirit very delicately, they don't use first fill casks, so as not to overpower the original taste. Casks should only make a contribution, not dominate. The malt they use is peated to 1 PPM, which is very very light, but it's still there. Also becasue of the maturation and/or because the distillation takes place on the coast, there is some sea salt detectable in the whisky. All in all if you drink this whisky several times you will find the results of all the above influences and more. I remember, when I opened the bottle I found the whisky too peaty, somehow just being off for my nose. Then as it decanted and mellowed I could find the orange peels and the peat was a bit more manageable. Then I tasted it and I felt the bourbon cask at the start, but then it turned salty and then with every sip the salt aftertaste was stronger and stronger, until eventually it felt like when as a child an ocean wave hit me in the face and the salty water went up my nose. The sensation reminded me of that exact experience. I actually thought I made a mistake buying it in the first place. Next time I drank it, the peat was very subdued and so was the salt and there were absolute bags of fruits and strong, pleasant oaky aromas. The third time it was bourbon like, a bit sweeter, fierier than I remembered. And every other time I found a different whisky than on the occasion before. To sum up then, this is an extraordinary whisky. To me it's like a chameleon. Every single time you try it, you will be overwhelmed by some other detail that you missed the last time around. You could drink a glass every day for the rest of your life and never ever tire of it. If there ever was a drink to have around a log fire to quietly reflect, ponder and contemplate, this one is it! I tried countless malts ranging from 25£ to 180£ a bottle and mark my words, this is hugely underpriced!

4th March 2016

This whisky hits every mark with excellence. A sweet nose where even the berries come through to a novice. The flavor is full and rich beyond its 14 years. The finish is clean with a hint of peat uncommon to the other Highlands. The honey comes through in every note. In my opinion it is the ultimate whisky under 25 years, pairing just as nicely with a Cohiba Maduro as it does with a prime cut of ribeye. I find similarities with the McCallan 15 Fine Oak Triple Cask.

24th February 2016

A far better whisky than most of the current reviews suggest. The initial sweet hit on the nose and the start makes you think that you are in for something from the Spey. However, there is enough smoke and peaty richness on the palate to kick you in a very different direction rather quickly after that. The finish is also much more from the islands than the mainland. A very pleasant and complex drop.

11th February 2016

I had it at 2 places and nothing compares to its smooth flavor

9th February 2016

"If you like Islay's don't drink this"

Really? Cause I adore Bruchladdich, Lagavulin, Ardbeg, and all the Islay malts. And I found this malt to be thoroughly enjoyable. The nose was fantastic, subtle undertones of smoke and vanilla. Picked out the citrus notes. Found the body to be a good amount of fullness, not nearly as heavy as Lagavulin which I find strangley pleasant, but it went down beautifully. I'm still drinking it now. Big thumbs up Oban

8th February 2016

I guess my palate is quite spoiled as my last three bottles were all in the 75 year old vintage. It was like drinking butter. The Oban, received as a gift, is quite tasty. Almost too complex. There is an incredible sharp/crisp after taste that lingers. I am not sure what it reminds me of. There are some scotch that I would lean on as the "after a good steak" drink. I am not certain that this would qualify as for me, it lacks the smoothness that I prefer. Nevertheless, it is still a good tasting drink.

7th February 2016

I tried it after a Highland Park 12, and a Laphroaig, it was almost difficult to drink it after the other 2 wich I enjoyed very much.
This was the second time I tried it and mostly because the first time was In a beach bar and thought I didn't like it because of the exposure to the sun, but second time was again very unpleasant..

6th February 2016

Loved it super smooth great way to finish a lovely birthday dinner!

6th February 2016

After doing a private taste with "highland Park" 7/10, "Laphroaig" 8/10, and "Oban", oban is a disappointment 4/10 at most and generous!! if you like Islay whiskeys this not for you, and in my opinion this is a cheap trick, I find ordinary whiskeys better.. first time I tried in beach bar though the bad taste might be because of the exposure to the sun.. Second time I'm convinced that it is not the sun

5th February 2016

"It tastes like paint thinner and down the drain it went!" You poured a $60 bottle of scotch down the drain? Yeah....right.

Honestly, if you're going to make up stories like that, why not go to the comments section of YouTube where your input would be in like company.

20th January 2016

Giving this one a second try first time wasn't overly impressed and it's actually a lot better than the first bottle I bought. Very sweet, fruity oak followed by roasted vanilla beans and just a hint of smoke not very coastal tasting though. I also have clynelish 14 right now and have determined that oban is smoother/sweeter but clynelish is more smoky/coastal also a little bit stronger. I personally prefer clynelish but this is a very nice dram and well worth buying again very happy with it. The sugarbear

20th January 2016

Wow. This is an incredible scotch. It's one of those keep-in-your-cabinet scotches given the flavor for the cost. Super well balanced, smokey, oaky, some little hidden vanilla notes, and a very pleasant hay flavor. It's also nice on the nose; it's one of those scotches you could spend 30 minutes with your nose in the glass.

9th January 2016

He's your Makelele; your Kuyt, your Bellerin. This is an unsung hero - a Julian Cope, a Rick Buckler.

I'm having one, now, and very much enjoying it. I'm rambling, now and should go to bed.

7th January 2016

Sherry, smoke, rich

30th December 2015

A solid whiskey, great addition to any collection.

23rd December 2015

"Tastes like paint thinner and down the drain it went"?... A; Why on earth would you be tasting paint thinner? B; Are you prone to the odd 'porky' now and again?
I would offer that this whisky is sometimes a tad overpriced, like a few others, yet for the price i paid I am impressed, particularly with it's 'all-rounder' qualities, both on the nose and on the palate. A Bonnie wee toon as well...

16th December 2015

my mother won a bottle in a raffle for 50 pence . shes not a big whiskey drinker so when she found out it sells for about 45GBP she decided to keep it for a special occasion. damn stll a few years to my 50th . guess i will have to wait till then to sample and give a review . still at 50 pence a bottle it would still be value even if it does taste like paint thinners that some reviewers have equated it to (never tried paint thinners so i would not now what it would taste like ) they must have drink problems if they lower themselves to that standard of drink.

14th December 2015

A very well balanced Scotch, long lasting finish fabulous on the nose great value for money.

4th December 2015

Agree. The Best Scotch I have ever had myself. All in perfect balance.

23rd November 2015

Best bottle of scotch I have ever had

22nd November 2015

It tastes like paint thinner and down the drain it went!

21st November 2015

Very, very smooth...

Light wood smoke and medical notes, yes. Marine themes. Gentle sweetness balanced against some bitterness. Great... The finish with oak, and then hints of orange and again some wood smoke. Dry at the end.

20th November 2015

In Scotland looking at a new horse and fancied a dram. Oban 14 certainly hit the spot! Light smokey flavour with hints of sweetness and citrus. Perfect for an occasional nip standing in a wet and windy field. 8/10.

13th November 2015

I recently bought a bottle of this from my local supermarket for half its usual price (£48 down to £24). This was such a good deal that I snapped it up on the spot. Oban 14 really is in a category of its own. A unique but perfectly balanced mix of different regional styles. A definite Highland single malt but with clear Islay influences and a fair bit of Speyside in there too. On the nose, initially it's nowhere near as peaty and coastal as many reviews I've read have stated but the smoky, peaty notes are there just not as pronounced as I thought they'd be. Then I swilled out my Glencairn nosing glass with some warm boiled water and tried it again and the nose really opened up revealing a similar savoury nose to that of Old Pultney 12 but with a quite exquisite dark fruit that I couldn't quite identify.

On the palate there's a wonderful fruity, floral spiciness with a hint of something that may be cinnamon or liquorice which reminds me of a good Bourbon. It's lovely and smooth and mouth coating without any nasty alcohol burn. The finish is fine with mainly orange dominating. I've read some reviews that criticise the orange on the finish but I like it. That liquorice or dark fruit makes a pleasant return on the finish too.

Is it worth £48? Absolutely not but at £24 I have to score it on the price I paid for it as value is a factor when I review any whisky. Overall this is a very good single malt that I'm glad to have found for such a good price. My collection at the moment (I always limit it to 7 bottles on the go at any one time) is dominated by strong, peaty Islays and this bottle makes a refreshing change as it covers a lot of bases very well. Recommended.

11th October 2015

I love it. Easy to drink, not complex, but nor is it offensive in any way. No acquiring of tastes required, just pour and enjoy, I like it on the rocks, with water, or straight, but prefer it on the rocks. As another reviewer mentioned, it does make a nice aperitif. I couldn't give it five stars because the orange flavor does linger a bit too long...

9th October 2015

Oban ,Very nice 14 year single malt scotch. I am a 12 and 18 , 21 year glenfiddich scotch drinker . I am very impressed will keep this one around for the cold nights by the fire.
Thank you
Dennis Banks

27th September 2015

As a visiting scot to the U.S. I was offered this by my host the other night.Straight up it is medicinal,but cut with water and no ice it truly offers up its real variety of characteristics. A very good after dinner dram,not for social imbibing

20th September 2015

This is my go- to whisky at the mo. For me, it's the right balance of peat, It's a smooth swallow and has enjoyable flavours all round.

30th August 2015

I'll hold off on providing an actual star rating as I am largely unfamiliar with the smoky scotches but I was able to try a dram of this yesterday evening and found it be basically undrinkable. A lot of the reviews here indicate a light smokiness but the dram I had reaked of smoke and sea and if that was light smoke then I can't imagine how smoky a Lagavulin would be.

It was definitely not for me.

13th August 2015

As Ron Burgundy said "Scotchy Scotch Scotch" This is the Scotch I think about. A great smooth scotch to end the night with and I have done that plenty.

10th July 2015

I really enjoyed Oban 14. It has a great floral nose and taste with just a HINT of smoke but it really shouldn't scare off people who aren't partial to peaty, smokey, islay malts. It's just a nice little cherry on top of the bright and uplifting flavor this brings to the table

Will absolutely be buying another bottle. The price ranges from as low as $62-$75 in CT

25th June 2015

a fine drink, but the medicinal notes and tarry ropes are faint whispers in the background. I get more orange and oak to the fore. the orange is interesting but out of place for me, in much the same way as a slice of orange doesn't work in a cup of tea. the rest actually reminds me of a Balvenie, pretty boring oakfest

22nd May 2015

When I first tried Oban 14 several years ago I enjoyed it, but it didn't really stand out for me. But, up to that point I had only really tried the most common (generally light Speyside) single malts. Over the years I've gained a lot more experience and having recently revisited Oban a few times, I really appreciate it for its overall quality, its richness, and its distinctive balance of flavors. Lots of different elements represented in a subtle but very satisfying way. If you're in the mood for something very "easy" to drink, but with more fullness and character than average, this is truly a winner. The tasting notes here could be misleading - medicinal notes and "notes of the sea" are definitely present, but not at all in the sense of a Laphroaig or Lagavulin. Again, its just much more subtle as far as those elements go.

21st May 2015

A very different dram than what I was anticipating a nice hint of smoke with some dark fruits like raisins and figs finshed with a hint of salty air. Very elegant and smooth one of my new favorites for sure.

20th May 2015

Considering the age and price of this whisky I expected more smoothness and complexity. The palate is still reasonable but the finish is too much dry oak and lacks refinement for my taste. Overall I'd say it's more strong or harsh rather than rich.

3rd May 2015

For the price, I was expecting something more complex or deep. Truth is, this is one of the blandest, most unimpressive scotches I've tasted.

2nd May 2015

I'm usually more of a peaty/smokey scotch fan, like Laphroaig, but I had oban on a whim in a bar and was really surprised by what a sweet scotch can do. You can really taste note of honey there.

25th April 2015

It's a very nice Whisky. Subtle, balanced and easy to drink.

It's not the most interesting Whisky in, my opinion. But it's a solid choice and a crowd pleaser. I've never met anybody that disliked it, one can offer it to guests or buy it as a gift.

6th April 2015

Given the age and excellent reviews my expectation was somewhat higher. Perfectly pleasant to drink but not as special as the price and age would suggest. My view is that Tobermory 10 year old is arguably superior and their other product Ledaig (peated) far superior. Beauty (and taste) is in the eye of the beholder of course.

18th March 2015

I've just recently tried the Oban 14 at a local "Irish Pub" ( I live in South Carolina) and was enthralled! I usually don't like peaty whiskeys but this was very subtle on the smokiness and yet full of flavor. I liked it so much that I've had it the last several times we'd been back to this bar and have enjoyed it even more each time. It reminds me of Talisker 10 except not as strong and a more subtle peatiness. I Love It! I've just ordered a bottle from an online source and got a very good price on it. I can't wait to get it and have a dram along with a cold Smihtwick's! Cheers!

14th March 2015

This is the single malt that really got me into single malts, I'm an islay fan, but nothing tastes like Oban. Great light oak and vanilla starts this one off, develops into a very floral and fruity body, with a peppery slightly salty smoke finish. There will always be a place for this whisky in my cabinet.

3rd March 2015

I bought a 20cl bottle to try and was quite impressed. It's subtle, but complex. I thought the smoke was very slight, but it was definitely there.

21st February 2015

Pleasant smoky aroma. You can taste the salinity of the sea and a burst of spice. A simple dram that I enjoyed but definitely feel there are other options to consider when dealing within this price range and age bracket. Don''t feel I''ll explore this again but am happy I did try it since other I know have enjoyed this bottle.

6th February 2015

Oban 14 is my birthday gift to myself, year after year, and it never fails to both charm and satisfy. A breath of smoke, yet easy on the palate. I must agree with the fellow who feels it is at its best neat, and it rewards slow savoring and holding on the tongue. This whisky is magnificent.

29th January 2015

Love this whisky. Balanced sweetness, complex layers. Excellent whiskey.

22nd January 2015

If you like smooth and light and more on the fruity vanilla side this one is a nice scotch. If you are looking for strength and peat this in not the one.

25th December 2014

I just bought a bottle in Istanbul. I live there and a few months back the single malt selection has enlivened. When I saw it on the shelf I thought this Christmas I'm going for it. Just opened it and am on another planet. A little water is how I like it. Happy Holidays!

23rd December 2014

I've been sampling for scotches for a while now and Oban 14 isn't describable in terms of any other whisky I've tried. It really is a hybrid between the highlands and islay. definitely not as smoky as islay, but the smoke is there. it's light and fragrant like a highland, but noticeably different. there is a sweetness and levity about it. it's not honey or toffee or chocolate. it might be citrus, but I might say that for lack of a better word. in any case, it's very good and I wouldn't discourage anyone from trying it. you might find a new favorite.

19th December 2014

I usually prefer a dram with a touch of pure water. Not this one, neat is the only way to go. It has a very complex flavor on the front end. As you let it rest on the palate, the flavors explode. Sweet, rich, smoky. It finishes lightly peated and dry. Adding water takes all the complexity out and changes it to a fruity, light, and very average with no depth.

4th December 2014

Nice balance between the smoky and the sweet.

1st December 2014

Never having tried single malt until Oban 14;
am now a convert,
Rich and creamy, and slightly sweet, perfect with cheese, and salami

26th November 2014

Excellent nose, sweet and smoky very promising. The palate is smooth (even more so with added water) and sweet with a hint of peat but lacks any complexity. The finish for me was disappointing due to a very alcoholic and sort of chemical aftertaste that the whisky left.

17th November 2014

I don't get the tasting notes, rich and smoky, seaweed or medicinal at all. I can't really identify the flavours in Oban 14 and yet I like it more over time. As one below said, easy to drink. I find it has some depth of character but still have no idea how to describe it's flavours. It is for me a very pleasant mystery.

16th November 2014

Excellent flavor a go to scotch when out at a nice bar

14th November 2014

Oban 14 is an easy whisky to drink but I would rather have the 10 yr old which is not available in the US

5th November 2014

Not sure how anyone is finding this dram too harsh - it's a pretty easy drinking one, not exactly an Ardbeg! Anyhow, bit of a girls whisky but delishus HIC anyway

23rd October 2014

Loving it til it's gone.And then it is what it was !

8th October 2014

Love that whisky, but it's to exspensiv for me, so only at christmas.

30th September 2014

.. the aftertouch is definatelly woody with a slight hint of peat

1st September 2014

I'm writing this as i am zipping my oban 14 yrs. It's a balanced whiskey with smoothhness, sweet fruity body and a light peaty aftertouch. I would recommend this to newcomers or blend drinkers.

31st August 2014

This was ok. I tried this at Bar a bar in L.A. called Seven Grand. Nothing really unique

29th August 2014

You won't buy any NAS whisky?!?! That's incredibly short-sighted. Some fantastic whiskies carry no age statements. Look at the Ardbegs for example, Glengoyne Cask Stregth, Glendronach Cask Strength, Glenfarclas 105....the list goes on. I can understand where you are coming from and your feeling cheated by the trend from some of the larger distilleries, COUGH Macallan Cough, to steer away from age statements in an effort to stretch out stock. However, Sometimes an age statement is omitted because there are occasions when casks will be at their optimum for a particular expression before a certain time period is up, for many reasons, and so I can understand some distilleries omitting them for some expressions. I am not sure that this is the case with Oban however.

Each to their own and all, and of course whisky taste is a very personal thing BUT.... Laphroaig 10 is chill filtered and bottled at 40%. Quarter Cask is non-chill filtered and bottled at 48%. I think you're foolish to say you'd buy the 10 which is an alright to good whisky but not the QC which is a great full-flavoured whisky, just because it does't carry an age statement. If it bothers you that much I'l tell you now it's about 5 or 6 years old.

28th August 2014

A few months ago I bought a bottle of Oban 14 in France, where the prices for scotch whisky are around half what I pay in Ontario. When I got home and tried it, I found it harsh and disappointing and not at all like I remembered Oban to be like.
Reading the label carefully, I noticed there is no age listed. It's called Oban 14, but never once is it described as "14 years old". There's no distilling or bottling date. It makes me wonder if this "Oban 14" is much younger than 14 years old.
Scotch is very popular, and many of the producers are blending their old whisky with younger stuff to stretch out their stock. Of course that can only go on so long if you sell more than you produce.
I will no longer buy any whisky that doesn't have an age specified on the label.
Similarly, I don't buy Laphroaig Quarter Cask, I only buy the 10 or 18 year old.

7th August 2014

As I sip this, I am reminded more of a blended whisky than a single malt. There is little depth. It is very light. There is nothing wrong with it, but there us nothing to interest or excite me.

4th July 2014

I wanted to love this one but it's either too simple or the flavors are way too subtle. I guess it would define "easy drinking" but when you're after interesting flavors there's sadly just not much going on in the Oban.

2nd June 2014

I'm really have never been into scotch, but I received a bottle of Oban for my 60th birthday May 10th. As am writing this note while sipping on my Oban.....I must tell you "WOW" what a
magnificent taste!!!! I'm hooked .........

1st June 2014

Definitely clean and smooth as butter, but lacking flavour, almost too subtle. I cannot see where everyone finds smoke here, i cannot feel almost any at all, just a hint.

13th May 2014

So comforting...so balanced. This glass of smokey sweetness brings you home. Warm and comfortable. Tastes like scotch with a touch of everything wonderful.

12th April 2014

Bought from the distillery ; well balanced ight with only a hint of smoke, lots of dark fruit, plums and blackberries bit of sugar and Vanilla aroma in the glass after the dram was consumed : Solid offering if a little underwhelming for the price ; tastes younger than 14yr the Barrel has not taken over the spirit.

5th March 2014

This scotch has a very crisp, almost refreshing clean taste. Definitely a great "teens" scotch. Probably the best. I like balvenie, but sometimes those are too syrupy, the Oban 14 is on the other side spectrum. Different, but great.

18th February 2014

Picked up a bottle at the distillery. Without water - lovely drop. The distillery had a teat papette, allowing the addition of a couple of drops of water - wow. I add mineral water to whiskey but the tiniest amount just releases the aromas and smooths this craitur off beautifully. Another nip at home and with less control over the water, added more. Pretty much killed the aroma, and oversoftened the drink. Better without, best with just drops, brilliant any way.

16th February 2014

I thoroughly enjoyed a bottle with a friend, both of us will be purchasing this whisky again, not as harsh as the majority of malts.

However please also allow me to vent my cinfusion at a comment left by ''The Sea The Sea'' when the person wrote:

''Nose brought me to the beach, a salty slightly fishy breeze. Hands are holding some vanilla and some orange peel. Taste revealed a small bonfire of smoke near the ocean. Dried oak burning. Dried orange in mouth. Then salty finish. A nice trip to the sea. One problem is notes of glue. Fades after a few days upon opening.''

You are nothing but a fool to write such a pompous poem-like review, i hope one day in the future you get a life.

11th February 2014

5 stars are doing it an injustuce!!! An outdoorsy sort of dram.

6th February 2014

A flavor where peat tastings are pleasurably undeniable, hints of smoke in the finish, and the "just right" citrus overtone. The 14 is delightful and delicious with a good cigar. Very much a fan. Seaside, in the open, fire roaring, cigar in had = bliss.

1st February 2014

i thought Oban 14 had a harsh kick that ruined the flavor. Not for me.

9th January 2014

Nose brought me to the beach, a salty slightly fishy breeze. Hands are holding some vanilla and some orange peel. Taste revealed a small bonfire of smoke near the ocean. Dried oak burning. Dried orange in mouth. Then salty finish. A nice trip to the sea.

One problem is notes of glue. Fades after a few days upon opening.

26th December 2013

This malt is simply stunning, it has everything peat smoke, sweetness,fruity,smoothness and a decent length finish.
One of my first choice malts and easy to obtain

24th December 2013

althoug i like peat, a lot of it like ardberg is to much for me. oban has a subtile peaty taste combined with orangy taste this is a great balance. with a small splash of water this whisky is super smooth

20th December 2013

Hi there! We're actually due a delivery before the end of this week, so do check back and you'll be able to get a bottle without a problem. --The Chaps at Master of Malt

27th November 2013

Kindly tell me when Oban is back in stock

Regards IAN HALL ianhall20@yahoo.co.uk

27th November 2013

had a bottle of this bought for me, and I have to say it's the finest bottle of scotch I've ever tasted, will definitely be buying a refill!

19th November 2013

Great taste. Taste that stays in ur mouth for a while after drinking it.must have for whiskey lovers!!

5th November 2013

Was a big burboun guy for years,got turned on to scotch last year at Super Bowl party and have tried many since then and love the complex notes of scotch particularly this one. Looking forward to trying others.

27th October 2013

My absolute favorite scotch

25th October 2013

a great single malt...for me is one of the best

10th October 2013

Spectacular.

28th September 2013

A very nice scotch....smooth, and full flavored, some smoke and some peat...as a huge fan of "the peat" this one is lighter than I would prefer but a very good one for those who are new to "peat and smoke". Should be in everyone's collection.

22nd August 2013

Agradable olor, sabor a mar, tierra humeda y maderas nobles.

18th August 2013

smooth and easily drinkable, would i buy another bottle? yes

15th August 2013

This is the very first single malt i tried n i loved it..... its awesome.. especially for people who want it light... m a fan now....

12th July 2013

fruit, light smoke, orange marmalade, mellow. Extra sweet and smooth with a drop of water. Great, but not much of a finish

22nd June 2013

My introduction to single malt scotch almost thirty years ago was Glenmorangie and I knew I was introuble. I was attracked to it's vanella and slight cereaminess. Over the years I I have taisted countless scotches; too peaty, too salty, pow too much alcohol in the nose, .......But then I was in a bar, in Los Angeles of all places, when I asked the bar-keep what he drinks when he pours himself a drink. He pulled down the bottle of Oban, pours me a good measure drops a sinlgle ice cube in it and that was it, I found my home. A perfectly balanced single malt scotch; creamy, rich, with just enough smoke. It is a sublime drink.

2nd June 2013

Great tasting whisky !

31st May 2013

In un viaggio in moto in scozia, dopo cena ci siamo fatti un Scotch Whisky ogni giorno di diverese marche. Abbiamo tratto le conclusioni che oban 14 fosse il migliore Whisky di tutti quelli assaggiati. Delicato e piacevole nel sorseggio.

29th May 2013

A well balanced all-rounder. Will buy again.

9th May 2013

I bought this because not only was it very highly rated, but I couldn't find two reviews that agreed with each other. I opened it a little while ago, and this blew my head off.
Nose: sweet toffee musket grapes samos desert wine rum brown sugar, golden Virginia tobacco, maraschino cherries toffee pudding pecan pie short bread shortcrust pastry, lemon meringue pie, rose, apricot jam, dark chocolate turkish delight, batternberg, chocolate trufles
taste: Cut hay, cherry pie, sweet tobacco, cashews, smokey rope, dry grass, bitter coffee, stewed tea, walnut whip, black treacle, marzipan, smoke, stewed plum, rubarb and custard, boiled sweets, christmas cake, icing, orange peel, orange bitters.
Believe the hype its amazing.

20th February 2013

Has been my favorite for over 20 years now. Having branched out to Canada and Japan, I still cannot find it's equal

6th January 2013

One of my favourite malts & at a reasonable price. I have overpaid for this dram a few times but i never really regret it - such is it's quality. Highly peaty with dark, rich fruit notes; for those not wanting a malt as powerful and smoky as Talisker or as peaty as Laphroig/Ardberg/Port Charlotte this is a great compromise. The finish is long and deep with hints of smoke, spice and pepper; whilst baked-apple and rich honeyed mulled berries underlies the warmer, more colourful notes. A superb malt, highly recommended - & if this is to your taste why not go ahead and try the Talisker 10 yr old - a true beast.

31st December 2012

This is an exceedingly complex whisky. A very strong and intricate nose, with a medicinal palate and evident cereal notes. Plenty of peat to go around. I love the seaside taste of this one and I'm sure to keep a bottle around at all times. A unique and characteristic highland malt.

29th December 2012

Just dabbling in single malts and found this incredible! A touch of citrus and a bit o smoke, which I understand to be peat. very "soft" and smooth and a fine subtile after taste. It has me very interetsed in a more variety of tasting. thank you Oban!!

18th December 2012

I have bought a bottle of Oban 43% at the Auction but can't find it on here, it's not got any age in years i.e. like 12 or 10, can anyone tell me how old this might be or how much it would cost to buy? thanks yours freddy

17th December 2012

Great whiskey!

14th November 2012

Not for me - found it too rich and smoky with a harsh after-taste - an acquired taste not for the faint-hearted. Thanks to the sample bottles I've not wasted too much money on a bottle that would have found its way to the back of the cupboard.

5th October 2012

Oban am converted

24th June 2012

This is simply brilliant. Oranges, sea salt and a touch of smoke. Very smooth, very drinkable, very tasty.

10th April 2012

The Oban 14 was one of the first single malts I tried, as it was part of the Classic Malts promotion packs. At the time I really enjoyed it, but as the years passed and my experience and single malt collection expanded I tended to let my Oban 14 bottle gather dust, thinking that I would not enjoy it anymore, as I had liked it when I was inexperienced.

Then, recently, I tried it again and I was wowed. Rich, creamy, sweet but not overly so, and the rich saltiness of salt toffee. Wonderful, for neophytes and "experts" alike.

13th February 2012

Fab whisky, Hard to get hold of in England, but well worth the trouble!

12th October 2011

a surprise ,a light peaty taste. orange and smokey just fantastic dram .This is my current favorite whiskey ...

16th January 2011

This is an epic dram, a lot is going in the nose - eg. smoky&juicy oranges, thoroughly thick palate delivering what the nose had acknowledged!!!

16th February 2010

A bit peaty, delicious oranges in the nose with perfect oily texture and a characterful finish. It is a great whisky. I wish there was a cask strength edition of this nice tipple.

15th February 2010