Nose Very reserved, and slow. Fruit acidity, red apple skins and dried fruits, with sweeter notes of rum toffee, chocolate brownies. Followed by sooty smoke with alluring, aromatic spices: frankincense, clove, cedar.
Palate Slow but consistent, with autumn berries and dried fruit. Cherry stones. Cooling at first, then becoming hot and lively.
Finish Long, with roasted malt, the ghost of black pepper, and some nutmeg in the smoky and savoury aftertaste.
Overall A hugely complex and rewarding release.