Taster

Nose: Sea air and smokiness - evocative sootiness.

Palate: Silky. The touch of fruitiness, usually reminiscent of lemons, is sweeter, with a momentary suggestion of cherries. The flavours become almondy and walnut-like, then rooty and peppery.

Finish: Long, haughty.

Comment: Lots of flavour development, complexity and refinement. Very elegant, but where is the clamour of battle?

Score: 9

Taster

Nose: Gentle and complex: orange/marmalade, sponge cake with pink icing, calfskin leather, angelica and smoke.

Palate: Soft and fragrant, light leathery notes then a smoky bonfire.

Finish: Light medicinal (Savlon/Germolene) then smoke.

Comment: Mellower than you'd expect but beautifully balanced.

Score: 8.3