Taster

Nose: Meaty, with gravy browning, some steamed green veg, bitter dark chocolate covered German gingerbread and black pepper. Blimey...

Palate: Sweet, but devilishly spicy, like an apple pie where someone over did the cinnamon and cloves. The dark chocolate bitterness returns and this is very bold complex and masculine

Finish: Tobacco leaf, more dark chocolate and spice round out a heavyweight whisky.

Comment: If this was a Bond movie, it would be Quantum Of Solace. Very manly, a little brutal in places but bloody difficult to understand.

Score: 8.2

Taster

Nose: Roast meats, a scented soap note develops, spring greens steaming, chocolated coated ginger, black pepper popcorn and red liquorice laces.

Palate: The sweetness is quickly replaced with a huge spice explosion, chilli chocolate, dark chocolate truffles, apple strudel (heavy on the Chantilly cream please).

Finish: Sweet and spicy, just keeps going.

Comment: Leaves the tastebuds bruised but wanting more.

Score: 8.4