Tastes

Batch #6: 3.75/5

This bottle hits many marks for me. The presentation is simple and effective, essentially putting the limelight on the straw-colored liquid within. Speaking of which, it is bottled at 46% ABV, which is a definite plus. It is also uncolored and unchillfiltered, so what you see is what you get. What's not to love? Nose: Ocean spray and smoke, I also smell the spirit itself, nice and malty. Mouthfeel: Rather oily. Mouthwatering too! Palate: Salty and smoky at first. As if I licked a dried rock on the seashore. There is also a minerality that comes with that. A floral sweetness arrives next, reminiscent of wildflower honey. I also taste a bit of pear...perhaps apple too. This sweetness is tempered with an acidic quality, a good amount of lemon. There's a bit of vanilla underneath, and oak spice throughout. Then the influence of the sherry casks arrives at the end, with hints of darker fruits and faint chocolate. Finish: Medium-long This is an exceptionally tasty and complex dram. The twelve years of maturation really show! It's well balanced, without being dull or ''smooth''. In fact, I like how it's rather aggressive. The spirit, smoke, and salt dominate, all while letting the rest shine through. It's not the most common bottle (at least where I'm from), so grab it if you can!