Fettercairn 2008 10 Year Clan Denny (Douglas McGibbon)

Color: Like dandelion wine. Nose: Cereal malt and bright lemon zest. Citrus notes fade into grass and lightly buttered toast. Palate: Mild nuttiness, similar to lightly roasted cashews, with continued citrus. Faint powdered cocoa and marzipan. Finish: Short and shallow. I'd like to try it at full proof. Still, a pleasant floral tang and bready sweetness. Diluted: The nose is sweeter and fruitier, with banana and honeycomb. The palate retains the honey with a light sprinkle of mandarin zest, though the finish is still a bit disappointing.

The nose has a strong industrial vanilla, floral honeydew, apples, grappa, and parmesan rind scent. The palate is drying but features creamy vanilla, honeydew rind, and burnt toast. The finish is medium-light with notes of white pepper, parsnips, and champagne. The nose is complex, but the palate becomes more subtle. Perhaps more alcohol content would improve it. Nevertheless, it's still an excellent pour for fans of the Fettercairn house style.