Oban Whisky and Nate Berkus Craft an Intimate Tasting Experience at Carondelet House

In a world that moves fast, true craftsmanship takes time. And no one understands that better than Oban.

To celebrate the launch of its latest rare release — Oban 15 Cask Strength Sherry Cask Finish — the storied whisky brand hosted an intimate, elevated evening at the romantic Carondelet House in Los Angeles. The event was a masterclass in slowing down, savoring the moment, and appreciating the artistry that defines Oban’s legacy.

Hosted by acclaimed designer and tastemaker Nate Berkus, the gathering brought together design, flavor, and intentional connection. “For me, as a designer for the last thirty years, what I’ve always tried to do was create spaces where people can come together and really make memories — and Oban is a brand that is very much about that as well,” said Berkus. “It’s about the experience of slowing things down, making memories together — it’s about heritage and history and things being well crafted.” Crafted with the same philosophy, the new expression — Oban 15 Cask Strength Sherry Cask Finish — is a limited-edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky that honors the mastery of patience and precision. Meticulously aged in European Oak Butts and American Oak Hogshead Barrels, then finished for over four years in Oloroso and Palo Cortado Sherry Casks, this creamy-smooth whisky reveals an extraordinary depth of flavor.

Nate Berkus toasts to craftsmanship and connection with Oban Whisky
Photo credit: Scott Clark

On the nose, it opens with aromas of dried raisin and orchard fruit, transitioning into hints of charred orange rind and lemon peel. The palate delivers rich, layered notes of burnt sugar, cinder toffee, and a subtle trace of almonds. The European Oak imparts warming tannins, pepper, and spice, culminating in a long, luxurious finish of brown sugar. It’s a tasting experience that demands to be savored, not rushed. That same ethos guided the evening’s experience. A thoughtfully curated grazing table, brimming with nutty cheeses, aged meats, and briny olives, perfectly complemented the whisky’s flavor profile. Guided tastings allowed guests to explore the expression’s complexity, while curated cocktails crafted by some of LA’s top bars showcased the spirit’s versatility in unexpected ways. Live music created a backdrop that felt both elevated and relaxed, inviting guests to truly be present.

Tucked away in the West Highlands of Scotland, Oban Distillery has been producing exceptional whisky since 1794. The 15-year-old cask strength release was created by Oban’s seven artisans under the guidance of DIAGEO Master Blender Dr. Stuart Morrison, who noted, “After years of development and refinement, we are proud to welcome Oban 15 Cask Strength Sherry Cask Finish. The whisky is born of deliberate care and the passion of Oban’s dedicated distillers.” The result is a rare gem — a bottle that embodies heritage, complexity, and craftsmanship. Like a perfectly styled space or an unforgettable evening, Oban 15 Cask Strength Sherry Cask Finish is a testament to balance and thoughtful detail.

This limited-edition bottle is available at select spirits retailers nationwide, with a suggested retail price of $150 for 750 mL. To locate a store near you or to order online, visit Malts.com, ReserveBar, or TheBar.com. For more about Oban Distillery, follow @obanwhisky on Instagram.