Whiskey Review: Nomad Outland

there is a marked crème brûlée-like creaminess with the pronounced, oily, viscous mouth weight that is typically associated with heavily sherried whiskies. An unmistakable but restrained sweetness grows stronger on the palate with pronounced golden raisin and dried stone fruit flavors accompanied by caramel notes. There are also noticeable walnut and marzipan elements. The bourbon cask influences are evident in the distinctive spice and vanilla flavors, but act as a nice compliment to the sherry finish notes. The two sherries offset each other nicely, adding nuts and dried fruit notes from the Oloroso and the sweet, golden raisin notes of the PX. That sweetness is nicely balanced and well integrated, and is free of the cloying, syrupy sweetness that can sometimes accompany PX finishes. The alcohol is smooth with a satisfying warmth, and is reminiscent of a fine Spanish brandy. The finish is long, refined, and complex, and features a succession of sweet dried fruit notes set against a creamy texture highlighted by hints of walnut and tropical spice. This is an excellent, very approachable blended whisky, showing good integration and a smoothness and a degree of complexity that belies its relatively young age. It would make a superb after dinner dram, yet could equally accompany a rich bisque or a spicy entree. Served over ice or with a bit of water it would serve just as well as an aperitif. Conclusion: Highly recommended. If you are a fan of Spanish brandy, like a sweeter Scotch, and appreciate the added complexity that a sherry finish provides, then you will find Nomad Outland Whisky an excellent addition to a “Scotch” whisky library even if it is not technically a Scotch. If your tastes run towards “peat monsters,” then it’s best to look elsewhere. Final Score: 88/100