Though bottled straight from the cask at a whopping 61.2% abv., this gentle giant from the heart of the Spey Valley wraps you in a warm velvet blanket, rather than delivering a punch to the face. A limited release, blended, it is said, from ex-oloroso sherry casks ranging in age from 5 to 25 years. A bewildering array of dark aromas on the nose: dried fruits, bitter chocolate and old leather lead to sweeter cherry and orange marmalade notes, cinnamon and cardamom, all tied together by the rich oloroso sherry influence. A powerhouse in the mouth, no doubt, but surprisingly approachable for the high proof. Cinnamon, allspice, sweet prunes dominate the entry, vanilla, old wood and leather coming through toward the finish. Addition of water (recommended) brings out more pastry crust and nutty aromas. A must-try for lovers of heavily sherried malts. Batch #56.
