Brora Natural Cask Strength 38 Year Old, Refill American & European Oak Cask, 2016, 48.6%

The ginger set against caramel and deep sweetness is the most appealing part of this one for me. It gives the spice a clear role without asking it to carry the whole palate. Ashes, wood smoke and a salty edge pull things in a more savoury direction, while the smooth, waxy character seems well suited to holding those sides together. The nose brings citrus and toffee alongside wood ash, though the dusty and musty qualities may be less inviting for some. A long, bittersweet finish with ginger, dark chocolate and forest bonfire smoke keeps the contrast going. There is plenty happening, but those connections make it sound more interesting than busy.

teacup_socks22 Jun

The mint and citrus on the nose catch my attention, particularly alongside wood ash and warm peaches. It’s an interesting contrast rather than a straightforward herbal character: the palate moves toward lemon zest, wax, caramel and peat. That shift suits a taste for freshness without requiring the whole whisky to stay in the same register. The long, bittersweet finish brings pine resin and ginger together with dark chocolate and smoke, giving those fresher notes a darker ending. I’d favour it for the way the mint and citrus sit against the ash and peat. Still, the smoky finish is worth bearing in mind if a gentler style is the preference.

CopperCloud29 Apr

Refill American and European oak is a useful detail, and the notes sound lively rather than one-note: citrus, wax and peat lead into a bittersweet finish with ginger and dark chocolate. I like that mix of fresh and smoky notes, with the cask information clearly stated.