Nose Deep dark sherry as expected, with a ripe selection of prune juice, varnished oak and molasses. Develops on tangy hints of gooseberry and a little orange liqueur. Actually reminds us very much of Pyrat XO! Some vanilla and Peychaud’s bitters appear after a few minutes in the glass.
Palate Huge, syrupy and rich. There’s a note that if stronger might be sulphur, but is just muted enough to add a fantastic dimension of Porcini mushrooms alongside the sterling barrage of rum spice, freshly cracked black pepper, Tiramisu and banana cake.
Finish Long and increasingly tangy with puckering fruit, hints of dried chili and various barks.
Overall We love this style of whisky – it’s not over-aged, but juicy and full of character.