Not only was this the final sample I had remaining from our last round of group samples, I also decided to do a little comparison with another burgundy wine finished whisky from another friend: the Springbank 12 Burgundy Cask. It only took a small sip to realize that was a bad idea so I abandoned the comparison and decided to let them both speak for themselves. First up, the Tullibardine 228 Burgundy finish. This one comes in at 43% ABV and is a beautiful pinkish-gold in the taster. Spinning it reveals quick forming water droplets and skinny legs. Plenty of water used to bring down the percentage- I hope it doesn’t dull the flavor. The nose was heavily oak and alcohol astringency in the beginning. I had to let this one breathe for over a half an hour before the more subtle notes appeared. When they did it was mostly ripened berries and vanilla. The oak had really faded into the background and that was a welcome experience. It was way too overpowering in the beginning. Patience on the nose is very necessary. The palate arrives with a peppery, oak blast but by mid sip it has settled down nicely and the mild, fruitiness takes over: pears, strawberries and green grapes. The vanilla notes usher in the finish. The finish is where this one shows its flaws. It’s especially hot for a 43 percenter. Black pepper, oak and clove that go down a tad hard. This is not only evidence of the base whisky’s youth but probably the shorter finishing time in the wine cask. It doesn’t ruin the overall experience, but it definitely makes me want to dock it’s total score considerably. It should finish much better than it does. Thanks again to @Generously_Paul for offering up this one for the group. It’s a fantastic nosing whisky that just falls on its face towards the end. 3.5 stars seems about right to me. Cheers.