Tasting Notes

Nose - Approachable and rich.  First polished wood and nuts (toasted hazelnut) dominate, then rich fruits, both stewed (baked apples) and dried (sweeet dates) take over, with soft brown sugar.  Behind this, a stick of liquorice.  Mossy.  Water brings out a sweeter, more direct Speyside character (citrus fruits, pear drops!).  Clean and dense.  After a while, warm, dry aromas of pencil shavings or match-sticks.

Palate - Sweetness and crunchy nuts impress at first, then there's a smooth, fruity Speyside richness to enjoy.  Firm, with a balancing sweetness: hints of blackcurrant fruit, brown sugar and espresso coffee.  Warming and pleasant.  With water, still a pleasant texture.  Light sweetness, then chewy and balanced by a light acidity, with a good spread of flavours mid-palate.

Finish - Medium to long.  Elegantly drying and crisp; then a sweetly nutty delayed warmth, which lingers pleasantly.