A 2015 addition to the Scapa range, the Skiren is a handsomely honey'd single malt Scotch whisky which has been distilled in the Scotch whisky industry's only remaining working Lomond Still! It was matured in first fill American oak casks, bringing plenty of vanilla and honey notes to the table. The name comes from the Old Norse word for "glittering bright skies"...
Runny honey and fresh cream. Hints of apple and a touch of anise. Maybe some crushed nuts, too...
Continued honey warmth and richness. Sparks of juicy pear and lemon peel. Touches of oak develop further on, bringing some balancing spice.
Medium length and a bit sweet, with oak lasting too.
I have sampled nearly 200 single malts and I LOVE the Scapa 16...one of the best values around. The Skiren at nearly the same price is to be avoided. The overriding profile is that of immature whiskey. Based upon that effort I will not be purchasing any future NAS Scapa.
Scapa is a lovely distillery and this is a fine whisky. Just right for my palate, but can appreciate that those who prefer a more complex whisky may be disappointed.
What can I say except exceptional, perfect nose, great palate and wonderful honey finish. Up there with the best.
Don't know if anyone else has noticed but the 16 year old Scapa is pretty hard to come by at the moment. I'm hoping this is an interim measure until more of the great stuff becomes available, better single malts can be bought at this price but if this is funding the return of the 16 then I shall drink I like water.
I had never heard of Scapa, I am a fan of Highland Park, so when browsing in local whisky shop thought I'd give it a go. Light, sweet and citrus nose. Palate drifts towards toasted oats with a sharp finish. Having had my first few sips I read the reviews and so strongly disagreed thought I should write this. I
