Appearance: A shade darker than white wine. Not as viscous as the Reserve or Sherry cask it would seem. Lots of thin to medium legs and some teardrops. A thin film on the glass.

Nose: The nose carries the ABV well, no real ABV ‘hit’ (not a negative) but there is a presence for sure. Barley, stewed fruits, pastry and apple skin. Getting more wood now (leave it): Oak and smouldering plywood (after it’s been drilled (again, leave it).

Palate: I was really impressed with the balance of this one when I first tasted it, I’m reminded of that now. Lovely rich buttery arrival, subtle spices at first, mixed with those pastry and biscuity notes. The spice builds on the second sip. Lemon sherbert starts to appear, a more acidic clean element to the dram. There’s a slight drying.

Finish: That slight drying effect, lemon zest, pastry and sharp stewed fruits. Black pepper and Cola cubes

70cl │59,1%

Country: England