I like Tomintoul for a whole variety of reasons, first one being is that as it says on its label it’s the gentle one - really smooth easy going without the fire and brimstone of others. Second is that a friend of mine’s Dad used to work in the Distillery and that’s how I came to try it, at a Burn’s Supper where ‘Al’ had been left to sort out the dram for the evening, being a good Scot he went for the course of least strain on the wallet and we were treated to the 16 YO core edition which was great. The single cask 2005 is a different beastie still that ultra smooth feeling but with big big alcohol at cask strength and this stays with it all the way through, I don’t actually mind this and it works here. Nose Pine needles and vanilla rice puddings with almonds or roasted peanut skin, it becomes fruitier with time. Subtle notes of nectarine and peaches, alongside lemon zest. Floral as well. Taste Quite creamy and some lovely sweet, tropical fruits. But the spiciness (chili heat)from the alcohol with vanilla and banana mush are much more present. Finally a whiff of menthol. Finish Lingering notes of aniseed, pine needles, white pepper and mango. Again, I was surprised by the alcohol hit from this but I have been looking forward opening this bottle up and will now be nursing it along nice and slow as it’s not the cheapest dram you can buy.