53.292 - A whiff of maritime joy

9 years old, distilled 20th February 2009, 58.0% abv, Refill Ex-Bourbon Hogshead, 282 bottles, dram price C

SMWS 53.292 - A whiff of maritime joyThe nose has dry bonfire smoke, sea spray and road tar. The mouthfeel is thin with no cling. The body has lemon, bonfire smoke, tar and fish oils. The finish has bonfire smoke, tar and lemon.

Water brings out thick, rapidly expanding whorling that settles into brief mottling. The nose gains more tar and lemon, some ash, and hints of barbecued seafood. The body gains lemon, more tar and fish oils, and loses a little of the bonfire smoke. The finish gains some ash and more tar.

Not complicated, but still very drinkable - and nicely balanced.

One for summer evenings, to finish the day.

Technical score: 4/5

Personal preference: I’d have another dram.