Aberfeldy 20 Year Small Batch Exceptional Cask Series

Batch AB2798 Casks 6,7,8,9,10,18 & 120 Nose - Ripe apples, ripe Asian pear, dark honey, dark raisins, golden raisin sweet, hint of orange zest, cocoa powder Taste - Bit thin initially, candied ginger spice, rich ripe apples, fruity dark honey, dark golden raisins, sweet fruity spicy oak, lightly waxy mouthfeel, candied orange zest Finish - Lingering ripe honeyed apples, caramel, dark fruity honey, dark golden raisins Score - 95/100 Final Thoughts - This was quite an "exceptional" whisky to be honest. I was extremely wary at first due to the lower proof of 43%, but this definitely packed flavor way above the proof. Extremely well balanced nose from start to finish with a great balance of sweet honey/caramel, fruit, & dark dried raisins. This continued to the palate where on the first initial sip it seemed a bit thin, but then as your mouth warms it up, it coats your mouth with this lightly waxy sweet fruity spice that just lingers. The finish is quite long lasting & reminds me of eating fruit leather that's mostly ripe honeycrisp apples, but has a few ripe red & green grapes mixed in. This is great from start to finish with a great balance & throughout has that "vibe" that lets you know there is some older aged Scotch in this blend. Would I drink it if offered? - Yes Would I specifically order it? - Yes Would I buy a bottle? - Yes NOTE - All reviews are done without factoring in price.