Taster

Nose: A hint of (appetising) phenol. Polished oak.

Palate: Robust exchange of sweetness and dryness. Juicy flavours from the oak. Vanilla, violets, sherry.

Finish: Apricot. Prunes in Armagnac. Sappy.

Comment: A malt that dares to be truly oaky. Thank heavens for boldness and individuality in a world where blandness is always an easier option. This beautiful old distillery is Chivas' showpiece, but it is more than a pretty face.

Score: 8

Taster

Nose: Fragrant with citrus (orange peel), flowers (freesia), spice, and a hint of cream-filled choux pastry. Juicy! Water pulls out more weighty malty notes.

Palate: Lovely mid-weight malt that's softer than the nose initially suggests. Great momentum in the mouth with cranachan, soft baked fruits, fruit cake, syrup, apricot and malt. It dances on the tongue.

Finish: Bursts into life.

Comment: Charming, subtle and gorgeous.

Score: 8.3