Oban Nights Watch

Score: 64

Oban Bay Reserve The Night’s Watch at ABV 43% is a limited edition Highland single malt released as part of the Game of Thrones whisky series. It’s a no-age-statement bottling, but it leans into Oban’s signature fruit-forward style with a darker, brooding twist, fitting for its Night’s Watch theme. The palate delivers rich malt, soft caramel, and dried fruit, with a touch of smoke and toasted oak. The finish is dry and warming, like sticky toffee pudding by a winter fire. Not a perfect dram by any means, but the very fruit-forward Oban profile is definitely on the club. Lots of distilleries have fruity expressions, but Oban seems to do it in a unique way that resonates. The aroma is spicy sweetness, turmeric, Turkish delight, oriental spices, and confectionery, with discreet aromatics that invite quiet appreciation. In a club context, it’s a solid conversation piece: not flashy, but distinctive, and a reminder that Oban’s subtle complexity can still shine even in themed releases.