Taster

Nose: Pomegranate molasses, fermenting apples, black treacle, and a whiff of silage. Dried beef, with paprika, cumin and celery salt rub. Old leather and plum sake.

Palate: Medium-full bodied. Rich and savoury notes of spiced beef (following the nose) cooked in red wine, underpinned by mincemeat (raisins, sultanas, candied peels) and nutmeg. Some black miso and chestnut mushroom. Black treacle and cacao nibs.

Finish: Medium, on plum and treacle.

Comment: A meaty whisky for those who like robust, savoury drams.

Score: 7.9

Taster

Nose: Toffee apples. Cinnamon latte with a brown sugar topping. Steamed syrup sponge pudding and vanilla custard. Granary toast with Marmite (yeast extract). A little cantaloupe melon.

Palate: Medium-full bodied. Rich, creamy dark chocolate ganache, and coffee and condensed milk. Orange peel and dates. More of that yeast-extract savouriness.

Finish: Medium-long, on date and almond cake.

Comment: A richly indulgent after-dinner treat that belies its strength.

Score: 8.5