9 years old, distilled 8th November 2005, 59.6% abv, refill ex-bourbon hogshead, 267 bottles

The nose has light, crisp smoke over which there's damp cardboard, antiseptic, vegetal notes (damp leaf piles) and a little vinegar. The mouthfeel is very thin with no cling. The body has crisp smoke, more vegetal notes, brine and a little thyme. The finish is brine and a hint of smoke.

Water brings out thick, spreading whorling that lingers for a long time. The nose now has no vinegar, but some brine - the smoke, damp cardboard and vegetal notes are all still there. The body hasn't changed much - perhaps a little more smoke and less brine? The finish gains a hint of damp leaves.

A lovely shoreline dram.

3.5/5