So, you like a sherried single malt do you? But you don't want to break the bank, you say?
Then look no further than this bottle right here. This is truly what a sherried Speyside single malt should taste like. Yet at literally half the price of The Macallan 12 year old it is worthy of more than a splash of your hard earned, it is worthy of respect.
Nose: Deep, rich raisin and almond leap from the glass towing a fine train of spice and a caboose of chocolaty sweetness. Faint hints of citrus and brown sugar dance in the background like an audience watching the sherry conduct the symphony in front of it.
Palate: Warm, smooth, yet with a thin mouthfeel that somehow manages to hang on just long enough to deliver the goods. The richness of sherry is the first player on the pitch but it sprints away leaving the spice, citrus and brown sugar behind to battle it out for your attention. Well played and nicely balanced, but surprisingly light throughout.
Finish: In sharp contrast to what one might expect from the thinner mouthfeel, it lingers long but lightly, almost calling you back to the glass for more. The citrus elements well up slightly before allowing the chocolate to take center-stage. Only then does the sherry play itself off, leaving behind memories of sweet versus sour, raisin versus grape, and an absence that only another sip can satisfy.
Overall: Wow. For those that have yet to try it, you are in for a treat. For those that have, I'm sorry for spilling the beans on the best kept secret at the LCBO (where this sells for $44.95). While some may bemoan its thinner mouthfeel, none can dispute the fact that this is a steal. This whisky deserves to be on any shelf, in any gift box, and around any discussion of the prime examples of what a sherried Speyside single malt should be. Do yourself a favour and pick it up soon.
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It's been a while since I last sampled this one...Noted!