135.10 - Express yourself

16 years old, distilled 24th April 2002, 56.7% abv, Refill Ex-Bourbon Barrel, 202 bottles, dram price D

SMWS 135.10 - Express yourselfThe nose has linseed oil, fresh oak, and acrylic paint. The mouthfeel is thin with no cling. The body has caramel, toffee, lime, macadamia nuts and ginger. The finish is ginger and lime.

Water brings out thick, rapidly expanding whorling that settles quickly into brief mottling. The nose gains lime, kiwi fruit and loses the acrylic notes. The body gains oak shavings and kiwi fruit, and loses the nutty notes. The finish gains oak shavings and loses much of the lime.

A strange combination of flavours that will wow some, and make others wonder.

One to explore with friends.

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!