Blair Athol Distillery, Thursday, April 25th 2024. Whisky #4 Nose: Pears poached in white port, stewed red apples, red berries, black tea, clotted cream, sauternes. Full of orchard fruits and white wine. Palate: The arrival is sweet with a mixture of fortified wine and malt. There is a subtle hint of smoke in the development, which is otherwise very similar to the arrival. The texture is rich but the palate lacks progression and is notably less fruity than the nose. Some black tea, dark chocolate and nuts appear towards the finish but they are shy and retiring. Finish: Medium/Short. Fruity, but dry with walnuts and over-brewed tea in the aftertaste. Somewhat maligned by critics, but I liked it - however it’s no more than an above average expression. The most interesting facet is how slight was the port wine influence. I assume the casks they use are ex-tawny pipes so the finishing time must be quite short. They may also use the pipes more than once, which would also account for the muted impact. “Above Average” : 82/100 (3.25 stars)