Nose: Through firewood notes of stewed plums and rum and raisin fill the nose, with crystallised lumps of toasted sugar. Earthy vanilla and dusty oak carry with them hints of cinnamon, milky coffee and caramel.
Palate: An unctuous, almost syrupy palate pairs polished oak with quince, mince pie filling, an earthy clove spiciness and sultanas stand out most, and thick toffee chunks. A helping of mulch and old leather keep an unmistakable rancio note company.
Finish: Chewy wooded notes, chilli chocolate and black grapes balance in a dry finish.
Overall: Delicious and delectably dark, this is a delightful example of a grain of this age.