91.31 - An Old Soul in New Shoes

12 years old, distilled 2nd April 2009, 55.2% abv, Second Fill Ex-Bourbon Barrel, 211 bottles, dram price B

SMWS 91.31 - An old soul in new shoesThe nose has lemon, sunflower oil, sandalwood and hints of plasticine and menthol. The body has lemon, sandalwood, menthol and tarragon. The finish has menthol, lemon and tarragon.

Water brings out tight, thin whorling that spreads rapidly and quickly settles into lingering mottling. The nose gains icing sugar and wax jackets, and loses the sunflower oil and some of the lemon. The body gains waxiness, barley sugar water and the lemon is softened. The finish gains a little waxiness.

A fresh, light dram that has a great balance of decent flavours. An unexpected highlight of the list.

One for summer mornings.

Technical score: 4/5

Personal preference: I’d like a bottle.

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.