[51.4%・Distilled in 1971・Bottled in 2014・43 Years Old・Official Bottling・Cask No. 147・Single Cask Release of 438 Bottles]
Nose:
Sugar caramelising into brown syrup, a vintage mahogany piece that has just been meticulously polished, with candied mandarins and dried cranberries bringing the brightness in acidity. Still, there is more to give in this dram, with fine vanilla grain and nutmeg later on drawing the oaky spices and leathery notes out.
Palate & Finish:
Warming and indulging with the Christmas themed affair, gummy bears with just a kick of candied ginger, the nectar of the fruits settles in as does a dignified, drying note from the wood with an aftertaste of dark chocolate thins.
The dark chocolate bitterness lingers, with spearmint and nutmeg as the oak gradually unfolds into dried fruits of sorts, figs , plums, cherries and mandarins.
Thoughts:
Much like an evening you can’t relive, chances are I will not see this dram again; I know these words weigh heavy but then again I think being melancholic is missing the point, the idea of an evening well spent is not necessarily something that requires proof of lasting memories.
☆☆☆ [Most Recommended]
-Nicholas
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