52.24 - Tin foil hats at Dornoch Castle

17 years old, distilled 18th June 2001, 58.3% abv, Refill Ex-Bourbon Barrel, 184 bottles, dram price D

SMWS 52.24 - Tin foil hats at Dornoch CastleThe nose has lemon, linseed oil, dried pineapple and hints of exotic wood. The mouthfeel is thin with no cling. The body has lemons, linseed oil, lime, pineapple, mango and melon. The finish has melon, mango and pineapple.

Water brings out thin, rapidly spreading whorling that settles into brief mottling. The nose gains soft mango and melon. The body gains pear and the pineapple moves to dried pineapple, whilst gaining a little dusty dirt trail. The finish gains dried pineapple and distant smoke - and perhaps a hint of white pepper?

A delightful sweet dram, which is all too easy to drink.

One for summer evenings.

Technical score: 4.5/5

Personal preference: I’d like a bottle.