Taster

Nose: Sherried of course, but also a little more peat in this vintage.

Palate: Pale sherryish, with late peat. A harmonic segue, but less fruity than I remember.

Finish: Very smooth, with some good wood-extract.

Comment: A lovely whisky in its own right, but not quite as layered as the best vintages.

Score: 9

Taster

Nose: Deeply attractive, honeyed with prickling wood spice and brandy butter.

Palate: Rich and lingering, yielding warm raisiny, sherried and oaky notes.

Finish: Long, oaky-peppery, distinguished. Smoky at the last.

Comment: An aristocratic and balanced Macallan, though drier than some recent 18 year releases.

Score: 9.5