12 years old, distilled 14th August 2003, 59.6% abv, first-fill ex-bourbon barrel, 114 bottles

The nose has toffee, butterscotch, fudge, red apples and a hint of rosewater. The mouthfeel is a little prickly, with some cling. The body has more of the fudge and caramel, a little camphor wood, lime and more of that rosewater hint. The finish is short with exotic woods, butterscotch and a little lime.

Water brings out thick, lingering whorling that doesn't mottle. The nose gains lime opel fruits, and more of the rosewater. The body has more of the opel fruits, and then a hit of toffee apples and dessicated and crystallised fruit cake decorations. The finish is a little less woody.

The epitome of a sweet, delightful starting dram.

4.5/5