First matured in a Refill Bourbon Hogshead for 13 years 11 months & a further 7 months in refill Moscatel Hogshead (cask #363544). A total of only 165 bottles were released.
Appearance: Summer honey gold, a substantial swirl line with plenty of medium trails and a decent viscous film. After a time the tide mark beads up and produces large teardrops.
Nose: Sweet baking spices, pastry and stewed red berries. There’s sweetness and a subtle berry sharpness, a friendly nose for sure. Starburst strawberry and lime….
There’s a nice alcohol level here, it’s definitely a higher ABV, but it doesn’t interfere with the aromas at all. A good balance.
The nose sweetens beautifully as the dram matures, very nice indeed.
Palate: A pleasing semi-viscous mouthfeel. Buttered granary bread, orange peel and a grassy note initially. Again, a good ABV level which doesn’t overpower but is reassuringly present.
The second sip provides grape, cinnamon (I think), toffee apple and a growing hum of wood spice.
As more sips are taken and the palate acclimatised, there’s an increasing black pepper & jamminess. Also a butter, almost chocolaty, quality.
Finish: Medium to long. Berry and orange peel-encrusted chocolate. A subtle cooling menthol and slight mild chilli tingle.
Overall: Very nice indeed. I really enjoyed the mixture of the buttery baking spices, sweet berry fruits and subtle pepper, lovely!
