Uncle Nearest 1820 Nearest Green Single Barrel Edition 11 Year Old, Oak Cask, Cask #US-29, 59.1%

daybreak kettle30 Sept

Sweet corn and oak lead the nose, with dried fruit, caramel and vanilla adding depth rather than a particularly bright edge. On the palate, caramel and toasted oak remain prominent, while black pepper and baking spices provide a welcome contrast. The hint of spearmint is the detail that catches my attention: it brings a little freshness alongside the richer maple syrup note, without making freshness the main theme. Vanilla, oak char, baking spice and sweet dried fruit carry through a long, warm finish. For my taste, the balance has substance and a clear direction, though I would prefer the lighter note to play a larger role against the sweetness and oak.