Originally launched during the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival in 2010, this is different than the current "Warehouse Version" (in red box). Now discontinued and bottled at a higher ABV of 46% vs current bottling strength of 43%. Rich in fruits and wonderfully aged for 40 years in Sherry Casks. Malt Maniacs Awards 2010 Gold Medal and rated 91 points by Whiskyfun
Colour: Honeyed jarrah wood and golden syrup. A deep, dark, reddish-brown.
Nose: Rich and intense. Sweet and leathery. Strong sherry and cedar wood. Ripe plums, orange zest, dark chocolate, tobacco, dried apple, rum, fresh peat, leatherwood honey, cherry, prunes, and brown sugar. A touch of balsamic vinegar, vegemite, and black pepper at the end. Tannins add a slight sharpness.
Palate: Full bodied. Velvety and smooth. Sherry dances with a shy, earthy peat. Woody and somewhat spicy. Rum and raisin dark chocolate, spiced apple, black cherry, brown sugar, apricot cream, and tannins making this slightly bitter. An elegant dram and a true treat.
Finish: Long and dry. Leather, wood smoke, peat, white pepper, pine, reserved sherry, plum, and rich chocolate. Deep, smooth, echidna, and warming.
Score: 98/100
Comments: This dram is such a gentleman. Clearly aged, and aged well. Beautifully complex and rich. Smooth, velvety, long finish and a full body flavour with incredible and diverse notes. This is yet another dram that I recommend switching out your lady’s perfume for. This is an absolute winner and I hope to have enough money to try it again in the future. Perfect for a special treat or a very special occasion.