Glenlivet Master Distiller's Reserve Small Batch, First-Fill Ex-Sherry, First-Fill American Oak & Traditional Oak Cask, Batch No. 0378/004, 40%

The fruit and spice make a welcoming pairing here. Peach in syrup and sultana meet ginger, then orange and raisin carry through the palate. Oily barley gives that fruit a more substantial texture, while vanilla and gentle oak spice keep the sweetness in check. The long finish sounds especially appealing, with orchard blossom, apricot, marzipan and hazelnut. A nicely layered, relaxed Speyside style.

Reviewed by saltair.sparrow

Nose

Peach in syrup, Ginger spiciness, Chocolate, Sultana, Seville orange marmalade, Custard Creams, Vanilla, Warm summer fruit

Palate

Balanced fruit, Vanilla, Liquorice, Gentle oak spice, Fresh oak spice, Raisin, Orange, Oily barley, Fruitcake

Finish

Long, Smooth, Lightly spicy, Orchard blossom, Apricot, Marzipan, Hazelnut