Taster

Nose: Wet grass, some draff then light scented woodsmoke and red apples. Grows in complexity with water: dry spices then a hint of date and smoke holding itself above it all. Complex.

Palate: Smoky start then a sweet thick centre. Chocolate and nuts. Little hint of sandalwood to the finish.Blond tobacco, chocolate and lots of nutmeg. With water the tobacco really comes through.

Finish: Long, complex lightly spicy.

Comment: Perfect balance. Elegant. A belter.

Score: 9

Taster

Nose: Prickly. Phenolic. A good creosote whiff mixed with cereals. Even a little grainy. A touch of Scottish tablet.

Palate: Intensely smokey. Smoother than the nose. A pleasant velvety feel. Roast beef gravy. Liquorice lozenges (pastilles du mineur). Water releases a bitter note and a drying spicy flavour (dusty ginger).

Finish: Quickly fading, leaving a salty taste.

Comment: An outdoor dram. Warming but somewhat edgy. Still untamed.

Score: 7.6