Nose

Intense. Fungal, mossy, pine needles. Shifts from outdoor aromas to indoors ones. Poached pears topped with a hot chocolate sauce and vanilla ice cream.

Palate

Smooth and sweet at start. Then spices tease the tongue in a cheerful way. In spite of the high strength, no burning nor astringency.

Finish

Long, spicy, slightly nutty.

Comment

A rich multi layered whisky which, surprisingly, I enjoyed better without water. The latter enhances a bitter tone.