Glengoyne Cask Strength Batch No. 005

Nose - Little hot, sharp bright sherry sweet, orange zest, bright red dried fruits (w/ water) Less heat, more vibrant/bright, addition of mint? Taste - Bit hot, raisins, ginger, orange zest, honey, caramel, light burnt sugar bitter (w/ water) Reduced heat up front, black peppercorns, light bitter orange, raisins, prunes, more fruity bitter Finish - Lingering raisins/prune sweet, orange zest & pith bitterness, flamed orange zest, dark chocolate bitter (w/ water) Lingering heat, less cloying sweet, flamed orange zest & raisins Score - 82/100 Final Thoughts - This one is nicely sherried, but it feels strangely young although I'm sure it probably is comprised of whisky from 8-12 years (my guess). Feels a bit brash up front and the heat backs it up a bit. Nice notes of bright dried fruits up front with a nice orange backbone. Nothing really off putting about this one other than the heat and the sort of brash bitterness I get with & without water. It's nice, but is really punchy and not sure I'd always be in the mood for this one. Would I drink it if offered? - Yes Would I specifically order it? - Maybe Would I buy a bottle? - No NOTE - All reviews are done without factoring in price.

Nose: 3,75* White pepper, baked bananas, honey corned flakes, milk chocolate and raisins. Palate: 3,75* Ashy white pepper turns to honey-ed malt, bitter chocolate. Finish: 4* More subtle pepper now, ashes, pretty long and kind of waxy. Peppery is part of it’s character and best embraced. Serve with a small amount of water, too much really drowns out any flavours.