Lombard Jewels of Scotland Single Cask-Deanston 21 Year (barreled 1996, bottled 2017)

Surprisingly light on the nose for the higher ABV, yet potent enough to know you’re experiencing a cask strength whisky. White fleshed orchard fruits, golden delicious apple, white peach, golden raisins, and a hint of dried apricots. I also find a light cinnamon like spiciness, a dab of honey and vanilla shortbread. Much more intense on the palate than the expected from the relatively gentle nose. Fruit salad in honey explodes on the tongue. The sweetness is balanced by baking spices, and a gentle but steady heat from the alcohol. Tiny teardrops form a rollercoaster ring and slowly develop dainty straight legs in many spokes. Medium bodied, with a satisfying mouthfeel, but coats the mouth far longer than anticipated. A gentle and pleasing finish, it’s slightly dry and oaky. Frosted fruitcake soaked in golden syrup lingers nicely alongside the mellow oak for a good long while. Oddly, no smoke from this highland whisky, I’d swear it was a Speyside if tasting blind. A little water enhances the experience, but ice muddies it. Nose: 9 Taste: 10 Body: 8 Finish: 9