29.168 - "Fade to black"

16 years old, distilled 1st July 1999, 51.8% abv, refill ex-bourbon barrel, 281 bottles

DSC_0269The nose is full of smoke, with a little nuttiness (cashews, almonds) and a little damp ash. The mouthfeel is thin but coating, clinging to the tongue. The body has damp peat, smoke, vanilla sweetness and a little menthol. The finish is smoke and a hint of lemon.

Water brings out thick, lazy whorling that settles into lasting mottling. The nose now gains a little lemon and menthol. The body has a little more menthol and smoke, and the finish is much the same.

A decent peaty dram, if a little lacking in balance of flavours. A good winter warmer.

3/5