Taster

Nose: Fresh orange juice, butter shortbread, printers' ink, opening a new magazine, a herbal edge, thyme mellowed salt. Heavily yeasted bread, rapeseed oil.

Palate: Instant hot sweetness then the spices start to build. Gentle and elegant, apples, pears and fruit salad. A touch of mint and lemon balm.

Finish: Light sweetness and oak lactones at the end.

Comment: A delightful elegant dram. Water opens so many layers.

Score: 8.1

Taster

Nose: Stewed summer fruits, white wine steeped pears, creamy vanilla and a touch of lavender-scented tissue paper. Open, welcoming and a very sunny dram.

Palate: Hot on the first sip, with more orchard fruit, lemon zest, a touch of elderflower and a cup of perfectly brewed Earl Grey tea.

Finish: Lingering orchard fruit and a light, bright zestiness.

Comment: My first 'summer' whisky and it is only March. Here comes the sun.

Score: 8.2