Taster

Nose: Malty. Butterscotch. Earthy. Damp wood. An autumn scent. Medlars. Dunnage warehouse. A precise sherry influence. Walnut stain. \r

Palate: Sweet and bitter. Big sherry. Lots of liquorice, over infused tea leaves. Dark chocolate. Mushrooms with a dash of water.

Finish: Sweet, with liquorice and a touch of parma violets. But no astringency. Dry with a touch of pepper.\r

Comment: A heavily sherried malt but the oak is not overwhelming. It can stand water, in homeopathic proportions, please.

Score: 7.8

Taster

Nose: The classic heavy wood tones of cinnamon, ginger, damp forest floor and church pews.

Palate: A big hit of oak, followed by some summer fruit compote which takes a while to appear, plum jam and fig chutney. Tropical fruits.

Finish: Sweet builders' tea (black) with a hint of plum and fig at the death.\r

Comment: This is the Rolling Stones of whisky; nothing without the wood turned up loud! A very well aged liquid which is big and fruity once the air gets to it.

Score: 9.2