Taster

Nose: Mouthwash and then a powerful aniseed note. Freshly ground coffee. Fades into plum jam, cranberry sauce and liquorice. Nutmeg. Mince beef simmering and tomato ketchup.

Palate: Thinly textured, but full of flavour. Sweet and sour notes in harmony – sticky raspberry jam, golden syrup, vanillas, against light tannins and a touch of wood. Nutmeg, peppermint, cranberries.

Finish: Long, chock-full of red fruits, gently warming and classy.

Comment: Very tasty indeed. It's simply expressed, but the flavours are wonderful.

Score: 8.6

Taster

Nose: Wow, plenty of meaty and savoury notes about here. You're in the butchers with the meat curing. Dark marmalade, spice and BBQ sauce.

Palate: Gentle tannins, slightly stewed tea. Sawdust, coconut cream, menthol and runny honey. Pineapple, a little lemon zest and sugar syrup.

Finish: Keeps going and is laden with raspberry and orange peel.

Comment: A super example of what a rye can be. Has all the balance of an excellent whisky.

Score: 8.4