11 years old, distilled 29th September 200, 55.6% abv, Ex-Bourbon Hogshead and First Fill Ex-Sauternes Barrel, 198 bottles, dram price D

The nose has lemon, honeycomb and hints of vinegar. The mouthfeel is thin with no cling. The body has lemon, green apple, honey and cider vinegar. The finish has lemon, cider vinegar and a hint of cinnamon.

Water brings out thin, brief whorling that barely settles before dissipating. The nose gains sauternes wine and more lemon, and loses the vinegar hints. The body gains lemon sherbert and a little light cinnamon. The finish gains a hint of oak.

A fine dram from a distillery that’s a stalwart of the blenders - and a credit for anyone curious and on a journey of whisky discovery.

One for spring evenings.

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.