The only remaining Single Malt distillery on the Black Isle, this whisky’s magic lies in its decadently layered flavours. Masterly slow crafting has long been the key; letting each stage of making from malt to maturation take its time, so that the liquid is balanced, smooth and enticing.
This rare expression mesmerizes with a sumptuous character, refined through eight years in wine casks.
Nose – Dry overall, the gentle nose gives a vinous first impression, backed by spicy, woody notes of oak shavings and beech. Alluring aromas of tart red berry fruit and creamy vanilla spread among them, and a hint of wax appears in the development. A little water softens the nose and relaxes the aroma, without great alteration.
Palate – An ultra-smooth, mouth-filling texture prefaces a lively, intense taste; barley-sugar sweet, with a pinch of salt. That sweetness becomes pleasantly tart, with suggestions of gooseberry and crisp grape. At reduced strength, it is not as tart, but still spicy; the sweetness is highlighted yet the appetising spicy heat remains.
Finish – Lengthy and palate-drying, as pepper-heat lingers in a last kiss of silken spice. With water sweeter, now with a trace of fondant in the aftertaste.