Ode to the Valley, Campbeltown and Rye

Today’s tasting lineup offers a delightful journey through Scotland’s valleys, Campbeltown’s maritime character, and an adventurous young rye from That Boutique-y Whisky Company. Let’s dive in!

Glendronach – Ode to the Valley

ABV: 48%

Region: Highlands

Maturation: Sherry cask influence

Nose: A warm, inviting nose—honeyed sultanas and orange peel leap out first, followed by a deeper sherry richness. Hints of cinnamon-dusted dates and toasted almonds provide an earthy backbone, while subtle oak polish lingers.

Palate: A classic Glendronach style with a decadent sherry punch. Sticky toffee pudding, dark cherries, and a touch of espresso. Layers of warm spices—nutmeg and clove—build, balanced by a gentle oak grip that never overwhelms.

Finish: Long and satisfying. The sherry influence keeps giving: raisins, cocoa, and a whisper of earthy tobacco. A dry note of old leather adds depth.

Overall:An ode indeed—a testament to Glendronach’s sherry-driven legacy, wrapped in comforting, autumnal warmth. This is a new favourite of mine and fairly reasonably priced too. 94/100

Dram Mor – 8-Year-Old Campbeltown

ABV: 57.3% (cask strength)

Region: Campbeltown

Cask: Refill bourbon

Nose: A bracing coastal breeze—salted caramel, green apples, and a touch of brine. Hints of engine oil (classic Campbeltown funk) swirl with fresh lemon zest and a mineral undertone.

Palate: Bright and lively at full strength. Lemon curd, white pepper, and sea spray give way to barley sugar sweetness. A subtle earthy peat smoke meanders through, adding complexity without overshadowing the spirit’s natural vibrancy.

Finish: Medium-long, with drying maritime saltiness and a wisp of fading peat. A tangy, slightly herbal note (think thyme or rosemary) emerges toward the end.

Overall: A feisty young Campbeltown dram that punches above its age, showcasing the region’s signature coastal funk and youthful energy. Another brilliant dram and really showcases what Campbeltown has to offer. 93/100

That Boutique-y Whisky Company – 3-Year-Old Rye

ABV: 50.5%

Region: Rye (likely USA or Canada)

Batch: Small batch release

Nose: Freshly baked rye bread straight from the oven. Spicy caraway and clove meet sweet vanilla fudge and a light hit of dill. There’s a lively, green herbal note—like crushed coriander seeds—adding freshness.

Palate: Surprisingly rich for its age. A burst of sweet caramel and burnt sugar balances the rye spice, with notes of orange peel and dark chocolate. Youthful vibrancy translates into a peppery zing that dances on the tongue.

Finish: Zippy and medium in length. The rye spice takes center stage, with lingering oak and a playful warmth. A dash of baking spices rounds things out nicely.

Overall: A bold, sprightly rye that wears its youth proudly—perfect for adventurous palates seeking a punchy, spice-forward dram. This one was pleasant but not up there as far as rye whisky goes. 86/100

Final Thoughts

Each of these whiskeys tells a unique story: Glendronach’s Ode to the Valley offers classic, sherry-driven depth. Dram More’s 8-Year-Old Campbeltown captures the region’s maritime charm and youthful exuberance. That Boutique-y Whisky Company’s 3-Year-Old Rye brings a vibrant, spicy ride that belies its age. Which one would you choose again?

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  TBWC 3yr Rye
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  Glendronach Ode to the Valley
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  Dram Mor 8yr Campbeltown