2001 Claxton's Exploration Series The Great Road West 19 Year Old Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Tasting note: The Great Road West's co-ordinates on the label point towards Edrington's HQ, which would suggest it includes spirit from Macallan, Highland Park and Glenrothes. Beautiful copper penny colour. Ugg boots and tempered malty sweetness on the nose, the sherry input well managed as low key spice and fruit cake. A delicate waxiness accompanies the sherry laced malt; Full and rounded through the middle stages, then sleek and long with spiced raisin cake suggested at the finish. A sense of 'breed' and old-world class to this. Something akin to very good Mannochmore or Glen Elgin (or Glenrothes or Macallan!) Stays with you. 45% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

Notes from Claxton's... Nose: Sweet Sherry and oak in harmony. Demerara sugar with raisins. Marzipan. Palate: Sweet stewed fruits at first before the oak and Sherry notes cuts through. Finish: Rich and spicy finish with a hint of raisins in syrup on the aftertaste.