The Sexton Single Malt

A fruity nose opens with a bouquet of sherry notes and sweetened grains all wrapped in a very thin caramel. Noticeably young at first nosing, with a slight note of nail polish remover from the alcohol appearing on the tail. As you let it breathe for a few minutes however, this off note eventually disappears, though the nose stays quite feisty for the low ABV. I get red currants and fresh strawberries, then a bit of orange marmalade and a whiff of lemon meringue pie. Next the cereals, coated in corn syrup, along with a hint of pistachio nut, a whisper of oak, and vague chai-like spices. On the palate it’s equal parts fruity, sweet, bitter and spicy. Right off I get sweet sherry and malt, but also dried herbal bitterness, citrus pith tang, and a copper-like note. Then, the heat picks up with loads of black pepper and a little chili but quickly fades. Medium bodied, and no legs at all, it just falls in jagged sheets. The finish is bittersweet, with more of the same from the palate, but with more oak plus some tobacco, unsweetened chocolate, and leather. Take your time with this one and you won’t be disappointed. Think: “poor man’s Macallan”. Nose: 9 Taste: 8 Body: 6 Finish: 9