Cask No. 4.294

An intriguing aura of respectability surrounded this sample neat; descriptors of raisins, tobacco, roast pork, smoked venison, camphor and caramelised fennel seeds do not do it justice. Smoke to the fore on the palate neat, rich and sweet combined with spice, extremely satisfying like dried figs in smoked heather honey served with a dollop of mascarpone and a hint of thyme. With a dash of water, we were on a steam puffer being served black pudding and scallops, and to taste a smoky version of a New Orleans classic cocktail called Vieux Carré. After sixteen years in an ex-bourbon hogshead, we transferred this whisky into a 1st fill shaved toasted and re-charred PX Sherry seasoned barrique.

USA allocation: 126 bottles