SMWS notes: The Panel agreed this was an immediately left-field example of this underrated make. Initial notes of flame-roasted red peppers, balsamic onion, cranberry gravy, mutton stock and heather flowers. Then rosewater, toasted cupboard spices such as cumin, some hot paprika and dried rosemary. Water brought out overripe yellow fruits, pollens, fructose, flambeed banana, lychee, mint julep cocktails and pine resin. The palate opened with buttered toast, gentle waxiness, baking parchment, hessian, cloves, posh olive oil and herbal cough medicines. Some hints of tarragon and eucalyptus bark. Reduction brought honey roast root vegetables, overripe tangerines, peach stones, dried apricot, exotic fruit teas, saffron and turmeric. Matured for 11 years in a bourbon hogshead before being transferred to a second fill charred red wine barrique.
In classic Australian style, this whisky has absolutely rippled flavour out of its cask. However, while I was expecting spiky youth in the spirit and the abv, it drinks with a maturity and ease that belies these facts. I have since bought two bottles. Absolutely delicious and as good, if not better, than it’s Scotch peers
Nose: A rich herbal aroma intertwined with bonfire smoke, evoking imagery of a seaside campfire. Notes of sea salt, struck matches, and subtle roasted orange peel linger behind the smoky veil.
Palate: Medium to full-bodied with a distinct oily texture. The high proof delivers a robust entry, blending sweet spices with peat, accented by a faint trace of sulfur.
Finish: Long and warming, with persistent ashy smoke and briny sea breeze. Hints of matchstick and a delicate iodine note round it out.
With Water: The aroma reveals pronounced wet sea salt and brine, with the smokiness softening into a rounder profile. Vanilla and oak emerge prominently. On the palate, the sweetness persists, with the peat becoming less intense, giving way to caramelized oak and fruit notes.
A gentle giant. This old grain whisky doesn’t try to shout, but it has plenty to say if you’re listening. A soft, elegant dram with aged sherry cask influence, balancing fruit, leather, oak, and just a whisper of tobacco. If you’re chasing subtle complexity over brute strength, this hits the mark.