Taster

Nose: Salty. Cookie-like maltiness. A hint of banana.

Palate: Medium-bodied. Firm. Oily. Some coconut. Some apricot-like sherry character. Winey, even.

Finish: Leafy. Vine leaves. Cedary, dry, slightly bitter. Some smokiness.

Comment: Robust, but lacks the delicacy and structure of the best Springbanks.

Score: 8

Taster

Nose: A fascinating, oily mix of soot and perfume: smoke and lilies. White pepper, oak and sage leaves.

Palate: Rounded with bags of personality and citrus fruits giving it an acidic zestiness. Spice (ginger/nutmeg) and oak as well and an overall oily, briny quality.

Finish: Dies a little after the exciting nose.

Comment: Drink neat.

Score: 8.3