18 years old, distilled 3rd March 1997, 56.8% abv, refill ex-bourbon hogshead, 248 bottles

Pork sausages with a little basil on the nose, then lavender and finally brine. The mouthfeel is smooth with some cling. The body has more herbal notes - basil, thyme, rosemary. Then a hint of plum, roast pork, and salt & vinegar crisps. The finish is long, with herbs, pork and bonfire smoke.

Water brings out tight, thin, compact whorling that lingers for a while. The nose now has less pork and more herbs, with a little bonfire smoke. The body has gained a little lemon, and then brings a hint of vanilla. The finish has more smoke and less pork.

A very fine dram for the end of a rainy day.

3.5/5