Deanston 2008 Bordeaux Red Wine

Nose: Bright red berries, caramel, honey, cranberry/red grape skin tannins (more vibrant with blueberries added after water). Taste: Bright red berries, dark chocolate, honey, light red berry funk, candied orange zest, candied ginger, dark apple juice (more vibrant and clearer with water, but drier/tannic mouthfeel). Finish: Gentle lingering heat/tingle, red berry funk, dark chocolate-covered dried orange peels (less heat/tingle, funk disappears, more fresh red berries with water, slightly less chocolate). Score: 88/100 Final Thoughts: This was tasty, and the red wine cask influence is noticeable, though subtle enough that I likely wouldn't identify it blind. The proof is evident, making it punchy but not overly hot. Adding a little water really opens it up nicely, though it slightly impacts the mouthfeel. It's enjoyable, but I'm not sure it's distinct enough for frequent reach. Would I drink it if offered? - Yes Would I specifically order it? - Maybe Would I buy a bottle? - Maybe NOTE - All reviews are done without factoring in price.

Found it for $55; a bargain at that price. Aroma: The red wine influence is profound, leaning fruity, dry, with honey and sugar notes. Taste: Neat, without water, the alcohol burn is almost overwhelming with berries and pepper, followed by bitter oak at the finish. The wine's impact is evident. It's dry and tannic, but the high alcohol content is so potent it overshadows the wine's quality. With water: It becomes much softer and mellower, with honey. The water truly highlights the oak and the wine's depth. Finish: Medium, warm, with fruity and sweet notes. A hint of bitterness and wood. Considering the price, absolutely, it's a steal. However, it's an unconventional, young 9-year-old Scotch that truly challenges your palate.

The official tasting notes capture it well. Candy, red berries, and intriguingly tobacco, which isn't a common descriptor but worth noting. They've done a commendable job here. I added a good amount of water, and it evolved slightly. A quality spirit, though I wouldn't call it thrilling. A solid 4.

Red wine, mint, vanilla aroma. Date reduction, Spree candies, almond butter, and barley sugar. The flavor is somewhat restricted. A long biscuit finish.

Strong tobacco leaf scent. High spice and alcohol on the tongue. Smooth, sweet, port-like finish. Excellent in my opinion.

Oily, sweet, salty, leather, prominent wine notes, toffee/caramel, syrup, with a dry finish.