Thursday, September 18, 2014

Harviestoun Ola Dubh Special 21 Reserve

Ale Matured in Whisky Casks
Harviestoun Brewery
Alva, Scotland


8% abv
11.2oz bottle
$14.99 a bottle
Bottle No. 08461
Date bottled: April 2014
Black Ale – Oak aged
Matured in Highland Park’s beautifully balanced 21 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky


Oh boy, do I have high expectations for this brew.  15 bucks a bottle to start it better be damn great. Then, 21 year old Single Malt Scotch – I like Single Malts.  I also like Highland Park.  Let’s get on with the review.

Appearance: black is beautiful and so is the body of this ale; mahogany on the rim; half finger light tan head; legs of lacing slow drip down the glass with each sip


Aroma: creamy oats at first; light bouquet overall; swirl the glass to open it up a little; then I get a semi-sweet dark chocolate note and a hint of that Scotch; not as dramatic as I would expect

Flavors: dark grains; smooth oats; the semi-sweet dark chocolate comes through; mellow coffee; touch of Scotch on the back; pinch of sea salt;

Mouthfeel: smooth satin; low carbonation; toasted grains; light-moderate bitterness on the back; alcohol warmth on the finish;  

To the Point: I think the oats help to mellow this brew giving it that smooth silky feel; on this bottle I am not picking up any peat or smoky notes; I checked my notes on Highland Park Single Malt Scotch and I stated on the post that it had a light smoky character and light peat; as the ale warmed up I did pick up a hint of toasted vanilla bean; overall, I really liked this ale but, for 15 bucks a bottle it did not have that wow factor to me; I am not paying 15$ for very good; the Ola Dubh 16 Reserve is much better and 5 bucks less




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