3.307 - A journey into joy

20 years old, distilled 25th September 1997, 55.9% abv, Refill Ex-Sherry Butt, 564 bottles, dram price F

SMWS 3.307 - A journey into joyThe nose has butterscotch, cardamom, nutmeg, hazelnut, smoked almonds and hints of oranges. The mouthfeel is decent with a little cling. The body has cardamom and liquorice, oranges, hazelnut, and hints of fennel. The finish is oranges, cardamom and hints of liquorice.

Water brings out thick, compact whorling that settles into brief mottling. The nose gains fennel and quince, and a nice smokey note. Only now do I remember that this is an Islay! The body gains more smoke - crisp with hints of earthiness. There's also marmalade, red onion chutney and a little crystallised ginger. The finish gains crystallised ginger and smoke.

A remarkable dram - one which really rewards the addition of water. A summer nightcap!

Technical score: 4.5/5

Personal preference: I'd have another dram.