Glen Scotia Victoriana

16 August 2017 Inverlochy Castle after dinner Neat: Nose is strongly alcohol, with a bit of complex fruit Smooth mouthfeel Alcoholic burn on tip of tongue with hint of smoke Then I checked, and ABV is 51.5%. A small amount of water: Smoother, slightly less smoke, more richness A bit more water: Even smoother, ample smoke More water: Still a bit of alcohol burn on the cheek Ample smoke Yet more water: No alcohol burn A bit of smoke

Terrific. Full, spicy, and smooth.

This is quite the robust dram, holding its own very well with a few drops of water added. There is some charred oak, olive brine and hint of citrus on the nose, followed by some strawberries, roasted almonds and dark chocolate on the palate. The finish is warm, fruity and relatively long. Worth a try.

This is really good whiskey - well put together. The nose has subtle hints of prunes and anise, with a floral quality I can't put my finger on but really enjoy. The mouthfeel is robust and full, and the palate has added notes of espresso coffee and nutmeg. The finish is long and delicious, yet dry, and a little bit of water here goes a long way. This is a better expression than the 15.

Nth 2017 High Roller

I will say, up front, that it was a good while back that I sampled this at a tasting (along with two million other Loch Lomond, Inchmurrin, and Glen Scotia drams...it was a GREAT night). That said, I saved my notes, and this was definitely a favorite from the night - possibly best in show out of quite a spread. The nose opens with a grapey/wine quality, followed by salt, caramel, and nutty notes; the palate is super smooth for the ABV, with dried fruit, nuttiness, salted caramel, dark chocolate, and a hint of pepper. My last word in my notes: "Long, luscious, rich, very tasty." Well, there you have it. Maybe I need to pick up a bottle and refresh my memory as to just how great this one is...