Taster

Nose: Assertive, rounded, appetising, smokiness. Some maltiness, reminiscent of Darjeeling tea.

Palate: Silky-smooth treacle toffee.

Finish: Chewy. Rooty. Anis. Liquorice.

Comment: I have always had a quiet fancy for this malt. It has a lot character: demonstrated here in the way it stands up to such heavy sherry.

Score: 8

Taster

Nose: Dates, treacle, leather, fruit cake, smoke and a perfumed note.

Palate: That perfumed character runs against the figgy, rich spirit unbalancing the whisky.

Finish: Smoky. Dry and slightly tannic.

Comment: Robust but the cask is in charge.

Score: 6