Bonnington unpeated new make spirit, heavy and full-bodied in mouthfeel but with a lovely creamed barley nature, sweet but not overtly fruity. A distinct signature/character for Bonnington distillate.
Bonnington New Make Spirit (unpeated)
Springbank 12 Years Old
This is a touch more closed initially than the 10yo but full of similar notes. Interestingly this batch (Batch 21, May 2021, 55.4%) has been constructed from 50:50 bourbon:sherry casks whereas previous editions have been reported at 35:65. There is more baked fruits here and some tarter citrus and earthier cranberry present. 86/100
Springbank 10 Years Old
Yum, a super expression with salt, smoke, sherry and barley malt influences throughout. A complex classic Campbeltown. 86/100
Dalmore The Quartet
Another complex and cask driven creation but building on Dalmores solid foundations, my favourite of the tasting. 85/100
Dalmore The Trio
Smooth and easy-sipping, this feels a little more integrated than the ‘Reserves’ caramel, vanilla and honey predominate here to assist with this easy-feeling before fruit and spice announce the cask influences. 84/100
Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve
Quite drying and spiced with a rich fruit backing and some malty spirit backbone too. Busy cask influences but generates a wonderful complexity and structure. 84/100
Dalmore Port Wood Reserve
The Dalmore port wood reserve strikes a great balance between port cask influence and ex-bourbon oak matured Dalmore spirit. 84/100
Glenkinchie 9 Years Old 2009 Distillery Exclusive
Dry and woody sweetness, primarily cask-derived initially then some interesting and green tropical fruit notes from Glenkinchie’s spirit. Fascinating to try something cask strength from here. 86/100
Glenkinchie Tattoo Edition
Fuller and more flavoured than the standard 12 year old and the addition of some extra fruity notes adds substance where often I find it to be lacking or a bit thin at least. Perhaps the delivery at 46% ABV has really helped here. 84/100
Glenkinchie 12 Years Old
True to the cereal, fruit and floral nature, everything in moderation and pleasant. 83/100
The Whiskyphiles 