Review: Scapa 16-year-old

We're used to whisky being discussed in terms of aging, but for Scapa single malts that has come to mean something else. The distiller created a 10-year-old that some folks still horde with a zeal usually reserved for discontinued street drugs. Then they issued the whisky as a 12 year old and then a 14 year old. It was like watching the drink grow up.

Welcome to Scapa's Sweet 16 party.

Scapa certainly has the legacy thing nailed: Distillery dating back to the 1800s, check; legendary location, check (the Orkney Isles, you gotta be kidding me); small authentic volume, check. All that and aged in American oak.

The new 16-year-old version is significantly better than the "old" 14 year old, if memory serves (and it may not). But if your idea of "island" single malts includes strong peat tastes, this ain't that. Instead, you get a very oak-ish, rich flavor and some peaty moments in the finish. At about $65 to $75, this is shaping up as what amounts to a value brand among the high-end single malts.

It's worth noting that this is a very good "transition" single malt for bourbon drinkers or blend lovers. It perhaps lacks the assertive distinction of cult scotches (and we all have our own list) but is a very whisky-ish choice. It's a "watch the sunset" sipper, as opposed to a "get thee to a dark pub" sipper.

Another thing to like is that it's not all that common yet, giving your top shelf a bit of distinction. If you're into singles, this is worth a spin and will likely become somebody's favorite. Plus, we'd highly recommend it for those looking for an introductory single malt that sidesteps the more harsh realities of a peatfest.