12.20 - Martini in a trenchcoat

8 years old, distilled 29th September 2009, 59.8% abv, First-Fill Ex-Bourbon Barrel, 215 bottles, dram price A

SMWS 12.20 - Martini in a trenchcoatThe nose has linseed oil, camphor, flint, and gooseberries. The mouthfeel is thin with no cling. The body has linseed oil, raspberries, and flapjacks. The finish has linseed oil, raspberries, and a hint of white pepper.

Water brings out thin, rapidly expanding whorling that settles into brief mottling. The nose gains raspberries and more gooseberry, and loses the flint. The body gains pineapple and white pepper. The finish gains pineapple and some more white pepper.

A borderline dram due to the white pepper, which builds up with repeated sips. But still a great set of flavours which are nicely balanced.

One for spring walks in a hipflask.

Technical score: 3.5/5

Personal preference: Just the one dram, thanks.

This whisky was provided by the SMWS in a preview session - thanks to them for that. Full editorial control has been retained in the tasting process!