14 years old, distilled 23rd July 2007, 59.6% abv, Ex-Bourbon Hogshead finished in First Fill Ex-PX Hogshead, 256 bottles, dram price D

The nose has a light smoke - like a damp bonfire - then roast duck and stewed plums. The mouthfeel is thin with no cling. The body has oranges, stewed plums, dark chocolate, nutmeg and cardamom. The finish has oranges, dark chocolate, damp bonfires, nutmeg and cardamom.

Water brings out thick, compact whorling that settles into brief mottling. The nose gains more roast duck and loses some of the plums. The body gains more roast duck and nutmeg. The finish gains more nutmeg.

A classic sherried dram with a little light smoke that helps separate it from the pack. A bit spicy after water, which is the only reason I’d not buy a bottle...

One for autumn evenings.

Technical score: 4.5/5
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.