Taster

Nose: Bourbon-like. Intensely spicy, bitter cherry, sap caramelised/waxy notes. This is all about oak. With water, rock candy and sticky Murray Mints.

Palate: Very sweet and direct. A sweet distillate with masses of oak around it. Tightens on the finish. Zesty and tingling then melting chocolate.

Finish: Dry and slightly acidic.

Comment: This isn't a bourbon? Shows how much oak has had its say. Throw some ice in and sip.

Score: 7.5

Taster

Nose: Artist's studio, linseed oil, distilled spirits of turpentine, quiet concentration. Then fruits: strawberries, melon, honey, sandalwood and pine resin against a biscuity background...

Palate: Oily. Oaky. Dense linseed notes. Creamy. Vanilla. Black butter sauce? Marshmallow?

Finish: Oily, burnt, minty, drying.

Comment: A strange, huge, dark and dense whisky. Try with Pecan pie or scallops seared in burnt butter. Surely a nod to the Ozarks?

Score: 8.5