Nose

Slightly earthy and leathery, with citrus fruit, mixed spices and cocoa powder.

Palate

Viscous in the mouth, with a surprisingly big, spicy hit of sweet, fruity sherry. This dries back to raisins, countered by honey and vanilla.

Finish

Very long, and spicy to the end, with a sherry and orange tang.

Comment

We tend to think that Balblair’s spirit character is best suited by ex-Bourbon barrels, but this is a good example of how well it handles sherry wood, too.