14 years old, distilled 2nd March 2004, 54.7% abv, First Fill Ex-Red Wine Barrique, 246 bottles, dram price D

The nose has red apples and quince. The mouthfeel is thin with no cling. The body has red apples, quince, waxed oranges and blackcurrant chew sweets. The finish has waxed oranges, blackcurrant chew sweets and a hint of cinnamon.

Water brings out tight, thin whorling that dissipates quickly without mottling. The nose gains waxed oranges and hints of lemon, and loses the red apples. The body gains more orange and lemon, plenty of cinnamon and hints of star anise. The finish gains cinnamon and star anise.

A pleasantly fruity dram that explodes with spice after water.

One for summer afternoons.

Technical score: 4/5
Personal preference: Just the one dram, thanks.

This spirit was provided by the SMWS in a preview session - thanks to them for that. Full editorial control has been retained in the tasting process.