12 years old, distilled 24th February 2005, 59.3% abv, Second Fill Ex-Bourbon Barrel, 180 bottles, dram price B

The nose has red and green apples, custard creams, caramel and hints of honey. The mouthfeel is decent with no cling. The body has a pleasing honey, then caramel and finally a wave of cinnamon and clove. Not too dominant, but the spice does build over repeated tastings. The finish is cinnamon and a hint of honey.

Water brings out compact whorling that settles into brief mottling. The nose gains more honey and the caramel is softer and more gooey. The apple notes are in the background. The body gains biscotti and rhubarb, but loses some of the honey - and the cinnamon finish is more intense.

A pleasant dram for sunny spring mornings.

3/5 (Would happily be 4/5 if less cinnamon!)

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!