2012 Claxton's Exploration Series Deanston 11 Year Old Single Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

A young Deanston that's benefited from time in an Oloroso Sherry barrique. For a start, it smells older than it is; the nose has a reserved, dryish malty character, with subtle leather and tobacco mingling amongst the dried fruits. Unexpectedly mouth filling, medium to full bodied, though never aggressive. Creamy notes of tea biscuits are set against a subtle fruity character (orange zest? Ripe papaya?) Good length, ending drier, the oak encroaching. 50% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered. Tasted from a 50ml sample.

Notes from the bottlers... Nose: Barley sugar. Biscuit. Vanilla. Oak. Palate: Sweet vanilla. Shortbread. Toasted barley. Finish: Oaky-sweet finish with a vanilla aftertaste.