13 years old, distilled 9th October 2002, 57.4% abv, Second-Fill Ex-Bourbon Barrel, 198 bottles

The nose is very quiet - pears, apricots and hints of pipe tobacco and brine. The mouthfeel is decent with a little cling. The body has Parma violet sweetness, apricots and passion fruit, then a hit of crisp smoke. The finish is sweet, with Parma violets and a distant autumnal bonfire.

Water brings out tight thin whorling that expands and settles briefly before dissipating. The nose now has more smoke and less fruit, but gained a hint of plum. The body has more Parma violet and plum, and some crisp smoke. The finish is unchanged.

A fine spring evenings dram.

3.5/5