9 years old, distilled 1st June 2013, 67.1% abv, Refill Ex-Islay Barrel, 181 bottles, dram price C

The nose has sweet tobacco, red apple, pear, greengage and hints of lemon. The mouthfeel is thin with no cling. The body has tobacco, red apple, pear, ash from burnt papers and lemon. The finish has a touch of tobacco, distant bonfire smoke and some lemon.

Water brings out tight, thin whorling that dissipates quickly without mottling. The nose gains more lemon and some bonfire smoke, with the greengage diminished. The body gains some bonfire smoke and loses the ash. The finish gains more bonfire smoke.

Estery fruitiness and that little bit of smoke - an alluring combination!

One for summer nights.

Technical score: 4.5/5
Personal preference: I’d like a bottle.

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.