Matured in Ex Bourbon Refill & finished in ex-Spanish Wine First Fill. 2 casks (2850 & 2851), were left for 8 years and then split for the last 4 months: 1 in Muscatel & 1 in Spanish red wine barrels.
Appearance: Light pinkish amber/Rose wine. A thin film forms with a tiny beaded tide mark. A few sporadic thick trails seep towards the surface. The beading morphs into many teardrops over time.
Nose: Not too much of an alcohol hit. Quite light, floral, zesty and summary. Honey, vanilla, green apple and confectionary sugar emerge first. There’s also some satsuma and a buttery, more mellow note. There’s a nice balance of aromas, and all smothered in that mellow buttery/creamy shroud. A bit like toffee apple/green apple slices with sugar.
Palate: A semi-viscous mouthfeel, not too oily. Still zesty on the first sip, with that toffee apple/confectionary sugar note. Some cinnamon and nutmeg enter the mix too. There’s a slightest touch of oak and drying on the throat, but it’s very light. The spice element builds steadily but gradually, never overpowering the sweeter notes. Fruit-filled dark chocolates next, a mix of bitter chocolate and sweet syrupy fruits.
Finish: Medium in length. A little more spice emerges during the finish, some black pepper and aniseed, before fading. The sweet element is still there, adding balance.
Overall: A very pleasing and, given the ABV, friendly and easy sipper dram. I like the freshness and the way the dram evolves too. Very nice.
