Taster

Nose: Sweet. Lots of caramel. Demerara sugar. A touch of orange (like in Cointreau). Vanilla syrup.

Palate: Sweet and cloying at start, then the alcohol bite takes the sugary sensation away but numbs the palate.

Finish: Rather short, not leaving much, apart from a burning sensation.

Comment: The nose announced a sweet dram but this wasn’t the case on the palate. A dash of water smoothes the flavours, but there is perhaps a sensation \nof immaturity.

Score: 7.2

Taster

Nose: Grainy spirit with a pot still spiciness. Floral, rye-like notes and subtle, spicy, mocha oak vanillins. The alcohol is holding the oak in place but water knocks it back. Brings out a citrus note.

Palate: Subtle. Coffee, chocolate. Barley and pot still spice, grainy spirit. Really alcoholic but the sugars balance. Water brings out the oils, softer oak and spices.

Finish: What a finish! Intensely herbal and spicy with a real kick. The oak is restrained by the alcohol. Water brings out the herbal notes.

Comment: What is this? An Irish pot still whiskey aged in French oak. Either way, it’s gorgeous!

Score: 9.4