86 / 100
The bourbon cask is clearly identified, but I would not put every flavour down to the wood. The nose has plenty going on. Zesty creaminess and pastry sit alongside loud oak and woodspice. Green apples and white stone fruit give that richness a fresher edge. I like the contrast carried through to the palate. Chewy malt and lemon zest on a biscuit base sound direct, while caramel adds sweetness. The mellow bittergourd bitterness makes the balance less simple, in a way that appeals to me. The finish returns to malt and lemon, then turns dry and spicy. Its medium-short length holds this back a little for my taste. Still, the mix of oak, fruit and chewy malt gives me plenty to like.
Reviewed by busstop_pebble
- Nose
- zesty creaminess, pastry and melting butter, loud oak and woodspice, green apples
- Palate
- weighty, chewy malt, lemon zest on a biscuit base, mellow bittergourd bitterness, caramel
- Finish
- medium short, malt and lemon, dry, spicy character