Taster

Nose: Figs in syrup, with a dollop of mascarpone. Rubber shoe soles, vanilla cream frosting, rum and raisin cheesecake and tobacco.

Palate: Delicate sweet peat, with more of the rubber soles on a hot day. Green tomato stalks, treacle sponge, chopped dates, peppermint creams, sage and stem ginger.

Finish: Fresh and spicy, with lingering tangy dates and sweet ginger.

Comment: This is a beautiful example of American single malt, showcasing character, delicacy and some real punch.

Score: 9

Taster

Nose: Milk chocolate-coated toffee with candied ginger pieces. Chalky Parma violets, limeade, peach gummy sweets, and rice cake. Butterscotch and Camp Coffee (chicory) notes. Sage.

Palate: Coffee cream fondant, burnt pastry, milk chocolate, toffee, and blackberry jam. Black cherry syrup. Juicy nectarine and ripe mango. Christmas spices, too.

Finish: Medium, on tinned apricot and green apple skin. Gently drying.

Comment: Perfect if you have a sweet tooth and like a touch of spice.

Score: 8.1