Ralph
Well-Known Member
The nose to me was reminiscent of maple syrup with a prominent vanilla aroma. First sip (neat) showed a more subtle vanilla flavor, heavy notes of oak and just a whiff of smoke. The finish was very peppery, very HOT! Probably due to its 50.4% alcohol content. I added a splash of water which didn't do much to the overall experience and even more water did not improve it.
Whenever I post a review I usually have done at least three separate tastings to sort of get an average and make sure my taste buds on any one night were not damaged by what I ate or drank before the tasting. Half-way through my first tasting my wife brought out a chocolate covered apple which seemed to balance out the spicy characteristics of the finish. (Chocolate and Scotch can make a fantastic couple.) The two worked so well together that I tried a little Ben & Jerry's Central Fudge ice cream on my third tasting which I drank neat. Second tasting was with a splash and without any accompanying desserts foods etc.
This is definitely a Bourbon lovers Scotch as the first-fill American Oak imparts both the oakey and vanilla flavors very common to your BIG Bourbons like Bookers. I probably won't buy this one again. The Doublewood is a Spey favorite for me, and seeing what they've done with Port finishing, I will definitely try the 21.
Whenever I post a review I usually have done at least three separate tastings to sort of get an average and make sure my taste buds on any one night were not damaged by what I ate or drank before the tasting. Half-way through my first tasting my wife brought out a chocolate covered apple which seemed to balance out the spicy characteristics of the finish. (Chocolate and Scotch can make a fantastic couple.) The two worked so well together that I tried a little Ben & Jerry's Central Fudge ice cream on my third tasting which I drank neat. Second tasting was with a splash and without any accompanying desserts foods etc.
This is definitely a Bourbon lovers Scotch as the first-fill American Oak imparts both the oakey and vanilla flavors very common to your BIG Bourbons like Bookers. I probably won't buy this one again. The Doublewood is a Spey favorite for me, and seeing what they've done with Port finishing, I will definitely try the 21.
