GLENALLACHIE 12 YEAR PORT WOOD FINISH

At $100 it’s a bit on the pricey side for a 12 year, but if port finished scotch is in your wheelhouse, you will love this expression from Glenallachie. It’s much like the Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban but with the flavor tuned up a notch due to the 48% ABV. Super stuff — 84/100.

The richness and complexity are evident from the color and nose: dark, reddish amber and plenty of baking spice with a touch of anise mingled with a dominant woody vanilla. The palate yields more of the same with notes of a berry fruitiness adding another layer. It remains quite spicy until you add a dash of water or a small cube of ice - then it starts to let the richer, sweeter flavors shine. But the spiciness carries it through a fairly long finish. An excellent Scotch whose edges are carefully sanded to a beautiful roundness.

Added a couple of drops of water this time. I think I smell more flavors on the nose. I smelled something buttery (croissants?), and definitely some fruit.