Batch 39

A formidable bouquet greeted the Panel nosing neat. The scent was mouthwatering, like fudge doughnuts with a creamy custard filling, alcohol-infused chocolate truffles and glacé cherries. Yet there were also antique aromas such as wood varnish, teak oil, old leather-bound ledgers and a vintage wooden potpourri holder. On the palate, the initial sweet wood smoke of smouldering cedar incense sticks preceded delicate, floral flavours of heather and wild lavender honey, as well as caramelised apple slices. With a drop of water we opened a bottle of vin santo, a Tuscan sweet wine with that typical aroma of ripe and dried fruits, hints of dark chocolate-covered macadamias, nutmeg and star anise, alongside roasted coffee beans. The taste – silky smooth, slightly tangy –reminded us of a walnut romesco sauce with a trace of smoked paprika in the finish.