Similar to the type of cask that would have been used in 1897, this is a great example of a whisky that takes time to open up. Initially the nose is very soft with hints of furniture wax, hessian and engine oil. Emerging notes of very old oloroso sherry bring a complex mix of fruit and nut; figs, raisins, plums, pear tarte tatin and frangipane. Growing ever bolder, aromas of coffee liqueur, flamed orange, caramel and black walnut bitters show a darker side before herbal notes of pipe tobacco and eucalyptus.

Massive sherry notes coat the palate, walnut, almond, raisins (almost like PX) and citrus in the form of tangerine. This is followed by a wave of European Oak spice, toffee and dark chocolate. In time a liquorice flavour develops along with a hint of Assam Tea.

Deep and rich. A short dryness from the Assam Tea note is replaced by re-emerging raisin and chocolate.