13 years old, distilled 25th August 2004, 57.7% abv, First Fill Charred Red Wine Barrique, 277 bottles, dram price B

The nose has tea chests, ginger, leather and dark chocolate. The mouthfeel is decent with a little cling. The body has tea chests, nutmeg, ginger and star anise. The finish has nutmeg, dark chocolate and ginger.

Water brings out thick, rapidly expanding whorling that dissipates quickly without mottling. The nose gains fruit - apricots, red apple and hints of pear. The body gains apricot, green apple, and gingerbread. The finish gains red apple.

This dram is a solid, heavy thing that hides its fruit - which isn't my preference, but others might like that.

Technical score: 3.5/5

Personal preference: I'd have another dram.

This whisky was provided by the SMWS in a preview session - thanks to them for that. Full editorial control has been retained in the tasting process!