Oban 18 Year Limited Edition is a US exclusive single malt from the historic West Highland distillery, established in 1794 at the gateway to the Scottish isles. Matured for at least 18 years in oak casks, this expression is the product of one of the smallest distilleries in Scotland, where two lantern shaped copper pot stills cap annual output at roughly 650,000 liters. The result is the signature Oban West Highland style, a profile that bridges the dry, smoky character of the islands and the lighter, sweeter malts of the Highlands. Awarded 91 points by Whisky Advocate and a Double Gold medal at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, this 18 Year is more refined and oak driven than the core Oban 14, with deeper coastal and fruit complexity. Bottled at 43% ABV in the brand's signature gull adorned packaging, allocations are limited and increasingly difficult to source.
ABV / Proof
| Brand |
Oban |
| Distillery |
Oban Distillery, West Highlands, Scotland |
| Type |
Single Malt Scotch Whisky |
| Region |
Highlands |
| Mash Bill |
100% Malted Barley |
| Age |
18 Years |
| Cask |
American Oak |
| ABV |
43% |
| Proof |
86 |
| Bottle Size |
750ml |
| Country |
Scotland |
| Packaging |
Bottle in branded gift tube |
| Edition |
Limited Edition, US Exclusive |
| Awards |
91 points Whisky Advocate, Double Gold 2021 SFWSC |
Tasting Notes
Color: Burnished gold with rich amber highlights.
Nose: Bright citrus zest, orange marmalade, raw honey, and a crisp kiss of sea spray brininess.
Palate: Mouth filling and sweet, tempered by smoked malt dryness. Layers of spicy oak, ripe pear, dried fruit, and salted caramel build with coastal salt and gentle peat smoke.
Finish: Long, elegant, and drying with lingering citrus, dark chocolate, and a wisp of smoke.
FAQ
Is Oban 18 Year a limited edition? Yes. Oban 18 is a US exclusive limited release that sits outside the core Oban range, and bottlings have been sporadic since the original 2008 launch.
How does Oban 18 compare to Oban 14? The 18 Year is drier, more oak driven, and shows greater complexity with deeper coastal salt, dried fruit, and spice compared to the toffee forward, fruitier Oban 14.
Is Oban 18 peated? Only lightly. Oban carries a gentle West Highland smokiness that is well integrated rather than dominant, making it approachable for both Highland and Island fans.
Where can I buy Oban 18 Year online? Available here at Liquor On Broadway while stock lasts, with fast insured shipping nationwide.
