2011 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Balblair 12 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Balblair is a characterful make that’s rarely in the spotlight. Here's a bit of a twist on one from an indie: Finished in a two year-seasoned, first-fill Oloroso sherry European oak butt for one year, following maturation in a refill sherry butt for over eleven years, this Balblair is defined by dried fruit notes. European oak typically imparts a greater spice and depth of character than soft, sweet American oak. The result is a deep, full-bodied Balblair that's rounded and relatively soft given the strength. Malt-forward flavours feature with a bitter chocolate edge and moderate heat and tannin at the last. Expect a big'un. 604 bottles produced. 57.4% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered. Tasted from a 20ml sample.

Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Warm copper.  Nose: Sticky raisin, may rose and morello cherry.  Palate: Dried cranberry, bergamot and sugared almond. Finish: Exotic Turkish delight with pistachio and date.