Taster

Nose: Flat and bland at start then oak leads the show. Liquorice, chocolate and walnuts.

Palate: Sweet and sugary. Oak infusion conducting bitter tanginess. Touch of black pepper.

Finish: Oaky, dry.

Comment: How can whisky leave its signature behind that thick oak panelling? No chance.

Score: 6.5

Taster

Nose: Mature. Cedar, tobacco, and light charred note (burning embers), turned earth then a herbal lift of fresh bay, dried sage and beeswax.

Palate: A palate spreader. Liquorous and rich with real intensity and a slightly acidic quality which is just balanced by that honeyed sweetness. Oak is quite firm and grippy.

Finish: Tight, slightly lean.

Comment: The oak is slightly too dominant to elevate it into the next category.

Score: 7.8