Strathisla 12 Year Chieftain's (Ian Macleod)

The aroma is quite damp with some overripe fruit, some wood (or perhaps cardboard), a bit of cinnamon and ginger, and a hint of savory something (but not much depth). The taste is fairly mild, with a delayed spicy kick that brings in wood and some fruit. The richness gradually emerges, building a robust mix of wood, a little coffee, strawberry, spices, some more toffee notes with savory from nuts. Some minerals do appear with some sea spray. The floral notes are a bit excessive. As it progresses, the alcohol begins to dominate and the rich flavors diminish, leaving mostly a solid whiskey for its age. It disappointingly quickly transitions from weak to rich and tasty, back to weak, and then descends into generic and underaged. A larger sip reveals the potential with plenty of sweetness and some richness alongside wood, spices, and smoke. The balance requires some adjustment, but it isn't too poor. I could enjoy drinking this, but it wouldn't be delightful.