Deanston 10 Year Pedro Ximenez

Aroma - Rich dried syrupy fruits, concentrated sweet prunes/raisins, butterscotch, crystallized ginger, a whisper of orange (with dilution) The same, but with an added effervescent quality, similar to sparkling mineral water. Flavor - Sweet dark prunes/raisins, cocoa, butterscotch, a ginger spice/tingle, chocolate-coated crystallized ginger/orange peel, a hint of brine (with dilution) This addition softens the initial spice, but merely postpones it to the conclusion; it remains very sweet, with a less syrupy consistency, but otherwise identical. Aftertaste - An enduring warmth, the deep syrupy sweetness of prunes/raisins persists, a trace of orange (with dilution) Unchanged. Rating - 83/100 Concluding Remarks - This bottling strongly suggested a sweet PX finish/maturation, exhibiting dark syrupy prunes/raisins from beginning to end. Unfortunately, it leaned towards being overly sweet, feeling like a dessert beverage best complemented by intensely dark, bitter chocolate to help balance the sugar. It accepted dilution well, as the flavors did not significantly shift, yet it remained quite sweet. This is palatable, but I believe I would designate this for a dessert serving rather than a regular selection. Would I consume it if offered? - Yes Would I specifically request it? - Perhaps Would I purchase a bottle? - No NOTE - All assessments are conducted without considering the price.

A bit fiery, but with a strong raisin flavor. Slightly sweet, yet easy to drink.