Taster

Nose: Deep, powerful and concentrated. This has moved into almost rancio territory: eucalypt/laurel, spice, burnt orange peel, apple, pear, biscuity wood.

Palate: Soft and surprisingly delicate given the age. A charred note adds to the complexity. Gentle and elegant: cigar box, prune, molasses, soot.

Finish: Long. In fact it's very, very long and complex.

Comment: A subtle sipper to be taken neat and definitely without ice!

Score: 9

Taster

Nose: Deep. Dried fruits. Raisins. Prunes. 'Country store' aromas. Slightly dusty.

Palate: Rich, buttery. Maple syrup. Slightly burnt pancakes.

Finish: Long. Warming. Slightly drying. Some char.

Comment: Showing its age, but I like its big, earthy, old-fashioned American flavours.

Score: 8.3