13 years old, distilled 21st March 2005, 58.4% abv, First Fill Ex-Port Hogshead, 296 bottles, dram price C

The nose has strawberries, redcurrants, dried raspberries and hints of both lavender and ash. The mouthfeel is thin with no cling. The body has engine oil, smokey bacon crisps and then lavender, blackcurrant and strawberries - all superbly balanced. The finish has smokey bacon crisps, ash and a top note of strawberries.

Water brings out thin, rapidly expanding whorling that settles quickly into brief mottling. The nose gains more lavender and some iodine. The body gains soot and ash, as well as more lavender and a hint of iodine. The finish gains a little iodine and more ash.

A wonderful set of flavours - the port cask really worked. Brilliant delivery, superb balance.

One to drink on spring evenings.

Technical score: 4.5/5

Personal preference: I’d like a bottle.