Willie J.

93 reviews · avg 84/100

I’m amazed by the colour and delighted that it doesn’t presage a spirit completely dominated by the wood. I’m also surprised to find the nose so approachable at this strength. As you bring your nose to the glass it passes through rich treacle and chocolate fudge before settling to mango wrapped in tobacco with an espresso on the side.
It needs gentle sipping, but that rewards with sweet chocolate, vanilla and more tobacco (almost ashy) before melting into bittersweet stewed fruits.
The finish is long with more chocolate, then cloves lead the rest of the spices that dry on the tongue and sizzle a little at the end.
I’m a sucker for this kind of thing. The intensity of the experience is wonderful and the flavours of long aged spirits are just magic to me. I think this particular one could be a little more open in the middle. I’m not one for watering spirits, regardless of their strength, but I did a little experiment with a couple of drops in this and it become more fruity and vibrant, but loses some of that tobacco intensity. Take your pick.
Anyway, I think this a beautiful thing. Thanks to the producers.

PS I love the bottle.

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