Macduff 2006 11 Year Cask #101751 (The Exclusive Malts)

The aroma is quite assertive despite the light flavors. There are notes of lemon peel, salt, brine, some floral mineral notes, and hay. The palate is much better than anticipated. It's refreshing and fruity with some sweetness that mostly avoids unpleasant bitterness. The strength provides a nice warmth. With more sips, spice emerges. It tastes like white pepper with some cinnamon. The bitterness becomes more prominent, diminishing its appeal. The bitterness grows unappealing, and the complexity fades as the unpleasant notes stand out most. There's certainly some smoke present. This is barely drinkable, and not very enjoyable. The slight graininess in the palate, which adds a bit of toffee richness and sweetness, is the only redeeming quality. The flavor is definitely rich, though its sophistication is questionable. Fruit and alcohol are the primary flavors, with vanilla and woody spices added. It's somewhat bitter and full, but not the profoundly deep experience I desire. It is quite rich, but lacks significant variation. The Macallan 12 Sherry, with its less-developed flavor and stronger alcohol presence, is comparable. Fruity, woody, and aged. Reasonably sweet with clear cherry notes. It's not as complex as Glenfarclas 25, but shares some characteristics. It tastes somewhat between Glenfarclas 25 and Delord 1981. That's a good thing, but both combined cost less than this bottle, so why not buy both? Notes of toffee, semi-sweet chocolate, and raisins are present, along with a nutty undertone (almond? Unfortunately, not delicious coconut). This is a very balanced drink with good flavors, but it lacks astonishing complexity and no single flavor truly stands out. If any flavor does, the raisin stands out as uniquely excellent.

A vibrant spirit at 53.4% ABV. Excellent heat. Notes of clove, allspice, pear, and candied fruit. It's lively on the palate. A fantastic little dram!