Tastes

I was lucky enough to find a bottle at MSRP. Absolutely outstanding with regards to its peers. The nose comes in with strong vanilla and oak. The taste is hot followed by sweet vanilla. Adding a small amount of water does absolute wonders to bring out the bouquet with notes of cereal and cinnamon.

Having never been a fan of the Johnny Walker line, I was skeptical after receiving this bottle as a gift. The flavor is quite subtle with the perfect amount smoke and smoothness that is unrivaled in the Blends I've sampled.

Certainly a lot hotter than Ardbeg 10 but it brings more flavor to the table. The peat is apparent but somewhat suppressed with notes of pepper. As I get used to the alcohol content I noticed a sweetness and some citrus and a finish reminiscent of salted meats. I can see why they named it after a whirlpool as it seems to swirl around the tongue hitting different taste buds.

First thing I notice on the nost is the alcohol followed by some spice, vanilla, caramel and corn. The taste has spicy notes, sort of an allspice followed by a delicious sweetness and something that reminds me of pipe tobacco. And suprisingly enough the palate isn't overwhelmed by the alcohol content, it has a warmth but not more than most other bourbons.

Normally, I'm not one to add water to a dram, perfering to take it neat to get a feel for the whiskey but adding a few drops of water does wonders. Milds out the Spicey notes to bring out notes of smoke, vanilla and the briney-dill taste i've come to appreciate. A little herb on the finish; sort of a rosemary. I don't think this Rye comes to life till the water is added. Its an amazing value if you can get it at MSRP