Bladnoch Samsara

Nose: Quite intriguing and captivating. A blend of fruits with fragrant, floral scents and mellow vanilla. Truly excellent. Palate: Brief and lively, with bursting flavors, delicately sweet and wine-like with hints of cherry, but also chocolate, vanilla, and a malty undertone. Very exciting; all elements are subtle yet possess the capacity to carry substance and presence with each taste. There's a Sichuan pepper note that appears and vanishes rather intensely. Finish: Reserved, very wine-like and slightly syrupy with a gentle, warming pepper. Could use slightly better integration and harmony. The cherry could be more developed, and the pepper toned down. Whisky taste exploration #78

It sits on the palate like actual jam, with a richness and viscosity from the California Red-wine finish that is a treat. I immediately detect notes of dried fruits and bramble, with the unique grassiness characteristic of most Bladnoch Whiskies lingering in the background like an acoustic guitar on a summer day. The floral notes found in many Lowland Malts blend with the grass, making it stand out without being too unconventional. Aroma: Cream, Raisins, Fresh Cut Apples (specifically Royal Gala and Autumn harvest apples.) Palate: Dried Fruits, Floral Grass, Full-Bodied, Bramble Finish: Rich/Viscous, Tannins, Orange Peel, Lemon Peel 4/5

Perhaps it was the sixth drink of the evening, but its color seemed to promise a bolder flavor than it delivered. The aroma was peculiar, smelling of cheese; I initially suspected inadequate glass washing, but then noticed other comments mentioning a similar 'baby vomit' scent, so I wasn't mistaken. I didn't find it unpleasant, just strange. Once past that, subtle notes of sweet red wine and orange emerged.

More engaging than its point score suggests. It presents fruity, grassy, spicy, and somewhat tart barley aromas. The texture is oily, with spice leading, followed by earthy, nutty, and fruity notes. Quite captivating and intricate for a presumed young (NAS) malt. I'll gladly explore more and buy other versions later. Accurate score: 85.

A- amber +1 (added color) N- vanilla, toffee, honey, caramelized sugar, rum punch, banana P- smooth start, slightly spicy, full, rich, oily, honey, toffee, vanilla, walnuts, crème brûlée, banana, raisins, tart, rum cake F- medium finish, creamy-nutty-sweet aftertaste C- NAS dram (I think it should be at least 8 YO) balanced and very pleasant

Truthfully, this is superior to many scotch whiskies, largely because it's aged in America in California and bourbon barrels. I'm happy to report this will become my usual drink.