Single Malt
Scotland
1 Jan 2008
A superbly straightforward idea and a delightfully delicious expression from Deanston. What we've got here is a 9 year old single malt from the Highlands-based distillery, which has been aged in casks that previously held Bordeaux red wine. Lots of yummy red fruit notes to be had here, folks - dig in!
Stewed plums and fresh strawberries, with chocolatey malt hiding underneath. Some Turkish delight, too.
Milka chocolate, sherried peels, brandied cherries and some sturdy oak warmth.
Buttered rye bread, raspberries and ginger snaps.
What a banger! It goes from being a very condensed malt at first contact, but with some water and 15 minutes this becomes the most malty, chocolatey, red fruity extravaganza on the nose. The palate has a steady arrival with an almost soft chocolate liqueur vibe about it, followed by a strong sour yet confectionery medium-long development, rounding off with a dessert wine finish. A must have if you enjoy heavily sherried/wine finished single malts and a good starter if you never had one ;)
