37 years old, distilled 31st August 1978, 54.1% abv, refill ex-bourbon hogshead, 228 bottles

The nose has polished wooden cabinets, toffee, and a hint of crystallised ginger. The mouthfeel is thin, with no cling - very clean. The body has ginger, elderflower, caramel and a faint hint of fruit - kiwi fruit? The finish is sweet, with crystallised ginger and caramel - it also lingers for a while.

Water brings out thick, short-lived whorling that expands rapidly before dissipation. The nose now gains dried honey and oats. The body has a hint of ginger heat, and some green apples towards the finish. The finish itself is (thankfully!) unchanged.

A lovely light dram, poised and elegant. One for breakfast, as the rising sun turns clouds to fire and peeks through the treeline...

4.5/5