A superb Hazelburn expression in which the spirit nature has been matched to (mostly) ex-bourbon maturation, soft citrus fruits and biscuity cereals accentuated with a touch of sherry sweetness and Campbeltown maritime/salt influences. 87/100
A fire-breathing beast of a dram from Spey which manages to capture everything from the light fruity apple nature of Spey’s distillate and plenty of Bourbon cask classic flavours too. Perfect at CS or with a healthy sploosh of water, the smoke travels a long way. 86/100
A touch spirity at Cask strength but manages to water well, highlighting the balance achieved here using Tawny Port casks. Jammy fruit and rose petal influences but not too sweet or overpowering. 85/100
A very easy drinker, has some nice complexity with a backdrop of Spey’s light spirit. Full of plenty of fresh fruits tempered by oak wood maturation. 84/100
The Dalmore port wood reserve strikes a great balance between port cask influence and ex-bourbon oak matured Dalmore spirit. 84/100
Similar influences to the Super-Tuscan Grattamacco 11yo but very different bias and intensities generated something a whole lot more integrated and delicious. In particular the roasted nut and chocolate are very welcome additions to my palate which really appreciated the increased gravitas here. 86/100
A fruity and zesty expression with plenty of spice, long lasting and takes water well which really softened the palate here and improved things slightly for me. 84/100
This 13 year old Scallywag Blended Malt definitely has some great qualities to it, mouthfeel/texture is excellent despite a touch of rubber on the nose and spice on the palate. It is redeemed well in the finish where chocolate/malt returns.
Classic Glenfiddich full of orchard fruits, rich and slightly more reserved/mature thanks to the extra ageing. Balanced to perfection.
Pretty much what I would expect from a refill sherry maturation, this one is quite muted. Fruity and sweet with some mineral notes.
The Whiskyphiles 