Taster

Nose: A hearty whiff of marine air with phenolic notes in the background. White currant and lemon zest. Tender vanilla echoes.

Palate: Silky. Coating. Oily mouthfeel. Sea lettuce.

Finish: Big, warm, exploding waves of spices. Water disciplines the outburst.

Comment: Hold your glass to your ear and listen to water lapping against the tarred boat hull.

Score: 8.5

Taster

Nose: Oily/waxy with peach, honey and some subtle smoky bacon/pancetta notes that grow in time.

Palate: Sweet start. As luscious as the nose suggests. Great texture, with the peppery smoke weaving seamlessly around the soft fruits and gingery spices.

Finish: Full. Rounded.

Comment: Superb balance. Shows how classy and complex a vatted malt can be.

Score: 8.3