Taster

Nose: Herbal. Lemon balm. Humus. Wet leaves. Vanilla rises, custard and trifle aromas. Sea spray. Beautiful.

Palate: Sweet and lively. Then bursting out on liquorice and spices. Nutmeg. Hint of cinnamon. Distant smoke.

Finish: Lingering, dry. Nutty. Cinnamon.

Comment: Rich and luscious. Needs a dash of water to cut spirit harshness. The marine influence is overwhelmed by wood but in a charming way.

Score: 8.8

Taster

Nose: Soft and creamy with perfumed smoke in the background. Tarry beaches, sandalwood. Danish oil. Wet rope. Marine. Balanced.

Palate: Thick, peach then a blast of peat, pepper, salt. Flows over the tongue. Tamed with water making it rounded and elegant. One to tease out.

Finish: The peat comes...and stays.

Comment: More subtle than the 18 but still feisty.

Score: 8.5