Longrow Red 12 Year Fresh Pinot Noir Casks

My portion of this bottle was in a decanter that previously held Hazelburn 12. Its color is stunning. The initial aroma presents black cherry, blood orange, and grape must. Beneath these rich fruit notes, the scents evoke an old forest. Peat dominates the palate, adding a medicinal quality to the aroma. It is rich, sweet, and very peaty. Sweet pepper jam, honey, and raspberries also come to mind. The peat and the wine, rather than blending, assert themselves independently and powerfully. The pinot noir influence is ultimately more pronounced. The wild finish is astringent with wine tannins and barrel spice, yielding to the rich fruit notes from the nose and palate. This is ideal for enjoying on a cold night by a bonfire. While it might be the only spirit from Springbank Distillery that I haven't adored – I do like it very much.

Rich, full-bodied, sweet, with notes of smoke, brown sugar, and raspberries. Absolutely delicious and a fantastic find at a local bar for the price.