Taster

Nose: Mossy and leafy, a walk through a forest. Cigar tobacco, marshmallow and ginger spices shortbread. A fruity edge, like blueberry compote. Damp, old books and cotton, a gentle menthol edge, pinecones.

Palate: Mandarin juice, that blueberry compote, then brown toast and honey. A spiced layer, chili mayo and BBQ prawns. Earthy mossy note comes back.

Finish: Surprisingly becomes all sherbet fizz and then runny honey.

Comment: Serious. Separates then knits back together. Sherbet dips in the Cairngorms.

Score: 9.1

Taster

Nose: Almost Bourbon like on the nose, with wafts of vanilla. A faint stewed red fruit hum loiters with intent in the background.

Palate: Fruit comes first, we're talking berries drizzled in a bit of syrup. This is backed up by vanilla and a smattering of citrus. Intriguing mix of spices, cinnamon, pepper, but becomes vegetal. Nothing particularly stamps any authority.

Finish: A very sweet finish, matched by vanilla.

Comment: Lots going on, but balanced. Something for everybody.

Score: 8.9