This is the first release from a new limited edition range of cask strength bottlings from one of our favourite Highland distilleries. 12,000 bottles were produced of batch #1, which was aged in a combination of Oloroso and Pedro Ximenez sherry barrels and bottled with no age statement.
Neat: On the nose this is rich and decadent with aromas of dates, raisins, toasted pecans and burnt sugar. The palate is viscous, with a moutcoating texture and sweet flavours of dried fruits and manuka honey.
With a splash of water the nose becomes more fresh and lifted, coaxing out aromas of toasted grains and a sweet/sour note. The palate also becomes noticeably fresher flavours of pear, cinnamon, balsamic and frosted flakes.
Verdict: If you’re a fan of heavily sherried whiskies or are looking for something rich and decadent this is an excellent addition to the Scotch cabinet. Although the oak is a tad intrusive it is still well made and worth a taste. It will be interesting to see what the subsequent releases in the series are like.
ABV: 54.8%
Price: $91 including tax & deposit
Vine Arts: Wine made simple 