The strong, wet sherry-cask note sets a clear direction, with red fruits and baked dates alongside sweet ginger, oak and vanilla. Oak and vanilla appeal to my tastes, but the sherry character seems to take the lead here rather than sit quietly in the background. On the palate, caramel and dried fruits bring sweetness, while ginger and oak spices give the thick, syrupy character some contrast. The lingering finish moves through cinnamon, nutmeg and almonds before becoming drier as it fades. I like that shift: it offers a bit more shape than sweetness alone. This is an appealing single malt for someone who enjoys a substantial sherry influence, though that richness may be a little much if you prefer a lighter style.
Reviewed by busstop.postcard
- Nose
- strong, wet sherry cask, sweet ginger, oak, vanilla, red fruits, baked dates
- Palate
- thick and syrupy, caramel, oak spices, sherry, dried fruits, vanilla, malt
- Finish
- lingering nutmeg and cinnamon, almonds, ginger, oak, sweet caramel, drying as it diminishes