Taster

Nose: Maraschino, anise, caraway, Earl Grey tea leaves, dried rose petal and toffee. Aromatic.

Palate: Bang! It hits the tongue with a plank of wood. Crystallised orange, 100% cocoa chocolate, matchsticks. Astringent to the point of bitterness. Water increases the tanninc hit.

Finish: Bitter.

Comment: The nose is great, the palate a huge let down. I'm all for experiments but this hasn't worked.

Score: 6.8

Taster

Nose: Rich, intense. Damson jam. Treacle. Stewed prunes. Wood and fruit are lusciously combined. Overcooked marmalade. Demerara sugar caramel like in a rich rum.

Palate: Wood is dominating. Bitter start then the rich cooked fruit shine through with added spiciness. Prunes and plums. Nutmeg.

Finish: Lingering, fruity and spicy.

Comment: Not as balanced on the palate as on the nose but really enticing.

Score: 8