Taster

Nose: Tangy, ethereal. A full basket of orchard fruit. Pear poached in vanilla. Distant almond notes.

Palate: Sweet and fruity (mango, pear). Quite oily. Velvety mouthfeel. Becomes spicy (white pepper).

Finish: Leafy, dry but lingering. Finishes with walnut peel bitterness.

Comment: Surprisingly vibrant for its age. There is a gap between the sharp nose and soothingly smooth palate. Water reconciles both. Would go well with a pear and almond pie.

Score: 7.5

Taster

Nose: Peaches. Dessert grapes.

Palate: A box of dark chocolate pralines with creamy fillings: fudge, apricot, mint. All of these flavours in a glass of whisky.

Finish: Concentrated sweetness, balanced by fruity acidity. As though raisins give way to fresh grapes.

Comment: Some of the older Smith's Glenlivets are too woody for me, but this one is a delight.

Score: 8.5