8 years old, distilled 20th April 2011, 68.2% abv, Second Fill Ex-Oloroso Butt, 567 bottles, dram price A

The nose has brandied sultanas, rum and raisin ice cream, brazil nuts and old leather. The mouthfeel is thin with no cling. The body has rum, brandy, sultanas, walnuts and old leather. The finish has old leather, walnuts, then a little brandy. Finally some sulphur.

Water brings out thick, compact whorling that settles very quickly into brief mottling. The nose gains maple syrup and hints of bacon. The body gains a little sulphur and some maple syrup. The finish has more sulphur (matchsticks) and some bacon.

Simple, but delightful. Exactly what you’d expect from an 8yo sherried dram before water. A bit sulphurous after water.

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.