9 years old, distilled 17th February 2007, 59.9% abv, First Fill Ex-Bourbon Barrel, 198 bottles

The nose has aniseed and peppers, with hints of fruit almost hidden by a note of cardboard packaging. Quite a closed nose, dominated by those heavier spices. The mouthfeel is thin with little cling. The body has an initial creaminess, followed by a rush of fruit and then chilli spices that close down my tongue. The finish is dry and sweet, but very spicey.

Water brings out thin, rapidly spreading whorling that settles quickly into lasting mottling. The nose now has a touch of vanilla sponge cake, and some soft pears. The body has more of that soft smooth vanilla, but is still quickly dominated by a warm spiciness. The finish is unchanged.

This dram had real potential, but that spiciness closes my palate. A great pity, but I'm sure others will love this.

2/5