Taster

Nose: At first there's sweetness but that develops into a very gentle farmyard note. goat's cheese and honey with cracked black pepper spice.

Palate: Follows the nose at first, earthy and warm. Then the fruits arrive. Apricot jam and Danish pastries, those green chocolate lime humbugs. Finally the vanilla comes through with a hint of smoke.

Finish: Long and warming with those spices tingling.

Comment: A solid, dependable whisky with all in balance.

Score: 8.1

Taster

Nose: Strathdon Blue on toast with oak smoked ham, prawn cocktail crisps and sour cream. Give it a bit of time for notes of lemon, barbequed watermelon and vanilla custard to develop.

Palate: The tastebuds are having a shock of sour! Last night’s tea leaves, cider vinegar, dehydrated orange peel and grapefruit zest with flashes of lime filled charcoal smoke.

Finish: Long finish with a sour and bitter chalkiness.

Comment: A full on fruity barbeque.

Score: 7.9