Note: Scotch Malt Whisky Society bottlings are exclusive to members of SMWS. For more information on the Society and how to sign up, go to smws.ca
ALSO NOTE: THERE IS A LIMIT OF ONE BOTTLE TOTAL FOR PURCHASE ON THE NIGHT OF THE OUTTURN.
A SECOND BOTTLE PURCHASE WILL BE ALLOWED THE FOLLOWING MONDAY TO ALLOW ALL SMWS MEMBERS TO HAVE A CHANCE AT THEIR FIRST CHOICE BOTTLE.
9 years old; 2nd fill ex-bourbon barrel; 59%; Highland
The first thing we noticed, pouring the samples, was the very pale colour which would indicate very little influence from the cask. But far from it, as warm, oaky, vanilla notes met citric fruits such as kiwi and lime, as well as floral aromas from a millefiori honey.
This was fresh and clean, with plenty of zing on the palate, like a wake-up call with the sweetness of a marble chiffon cake, plus cocoa and vanilla swirls in the background. Water added a New York lemon cheesecake, elderflower and rhubarb pavlovas, and spicy gooseberry chutney on the nose. The taste had a peppery, cinnamon spiciness combined with menthol sweetness and a hoppy finish.
