A “scotchy” nose infused with bourbon. Sweetened wheat and barley notes are prominent, like brown sugar on Grape-Nuts cereal. Then fruit fragrantly blossoms in the form of ripe pears and apples, served up alongside a large dollop of vanilla cream and a drop of orange oil. Finally, a subtle base of barrel char, cavendish, cocoa and Luden’s cherry cough drops. The palate is spicy, peculiarly prickly, and quite sweet. Malt and honey dipped sour apples take the lead followed by sharp citrus. Then it yields to cherry syrup, vanilla, and spice notes typical of bourbon. Medium bodied, with a thinly syrupy mouthfeel. A thick band at mid glass quickly breaks into thin arches variably spaced, eventually collecting into a uniform ring hanging heavily yet defiantly just above the liquid below. The finish reveals oak and almond skins, yet retains sweetness with candied bitter orange, a touch of molasses, and Bird’s Custard Powder. A few drops of water open the nose bringing florals, particularly peony and rose, softens the palate, and enriches the finish cutting the bitterness and hinting at Raisinets. Pretty good, if not a bit confused. Nose: 9 Taste: 8 Body: 8 Finish: 9