Taster

Nose: Jam making with dark fruits, prunes, plums and blackberries. Into the sherry cabinet, tea stewed raisins and cherries covered in rich dark chocolate.

Palate: Those heady and aromatic sherry notes of tannins and polished oak. A little menthol and a roast pepper edge. Cherries and chocolate with toffee apples.

Finish: Long with those sherry notes. When it slowly dries out it leaves those dark fruits.

Comment: It takes Speyside and turns the perceived style on its head. Dark and mysterious stuff, watch out for the ginger too.

Score: 8.7

Taster

Nose: Praline pecans, red apple skin, dried mango and Battenberg cake. Peering through is charred bark and some maple syrup.

Palate: Beautifully rich tones with soft leather, marzipan, salted caramel and cherry liquorice. Dashes of apricot jam, white pepper and cider vinegar crisps on the tip of the tongue.

Finish: Warm with a refreshing tingle and charred oak creating a chalky texture.

Comment: A jaw clencher cask strength that keeps its body and weight with the addition of water.

Score: 9.1