12 years old, distilled 8th December 2008, 57.8% abv, second fill ex-red wine barrique, 241 bottles, dram price D

The nose has mulled red wine, pears and hints of oak. The mouthfeel is thin with no cling. The body has red wine, pear, cinnamon, red berries and hints of fennel. The finish has fennel, red wine and cinnamon.

Water brings out thin, compact whorling that dissipates quickly without mottling. The nose gains fennel and cinnamon. The body gains more red wine and cinnamon. The finish gains cinnamon.

A curious collection of flavours, but well presented and balanced.

One for winter evenings.

Technical score: 4/5
Personal preference: I’d have another dram.

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.