ABV
60.7%
Region
Highlands (Isle of Mull)
Bottling
Signatory Vintage (together with Kirsch Import for the German market)
Cask type
Refill Spanish Butts, Finish in Refill Madeira Hogshead for 29 Months (706 btl.)
Nose
Sweet scent on the nose of honey and vanilla, paired with notes of smoked ham, anise, white pepper and some cloves. Behind this, light fruits emerge, especially apricot. Subtle smoke always resonates. The alcohol is well integrated and not pungent.
Palate
An intense start on the palate with sweet vanilla and pale fruit, immediately followed by a strong warming spiciness with pepper and chili peppers. As soon as this warmth fades, creamy notes of honey and yellow fruit jam appear. Smoke floats discreetly above everything.
Finish
The finish is long and creamy, becoming increasingly dry with smoke, ash, some oak, slightly bitter walnut aromas and an earthy note.
With water
After the addition of water much more present and intense on the nose with noticeable alcohol. The smoke is pushed into the background, leaving room for vanilla, honey and more yellow fruit aromas. Sweet and prickling on the palate with a slight pepperiness. Much less warming, but more creamy vanilla, apricot fruit, ginger and a touch of smoke with some smoked ham. The finish is still long and pleasantly warming with creamy vanilla and honey, becoming drier with time and showing notes of smoke, ash and cloves.
Comments
A pleasant combination of sweetness, yellow fruit and warming spices. The influence of Madeira is subtle. A beautiful winter warmer.