87 / 100
The appeal here is its sweet fruit, held in check by spice and oak. Honey, pears, and ripe apples set a rounded line, while cloves bring a clear counterpoint. The palate carries that balance through clementine, stewed apples, raspberry jam, and date fudge. I like the turn toward appetizing dryness in the finish, which keeps the lingering sweet wood from feeling one-note. This 18-year blended Scotch with a Japanese oak finish reads as measured and fruit-led.
Reviewed by pocketkit
- Nose
- Honey, pears, and ripe apples, Sandalwood, vanilla, and cloves, Citrus orange and lemon rinds
- Palate
- Clementine, stewed apples, and raspberry jam, Date fudge, vanilla custard, and aromatic oak
- Finish
- Ginger spice, apple juice, and honey, Appetizing dryness with a sweet woody character