Single Cask Nation Ben Nevis 6 Year

This was sampled blind. Ben Nevis 6 2020 Single Cask Nation First-Fill Amontillado Butt, 67.6% ABV Distilled: December 2013, Bottled: September 2020 Nose - (without water) Apple cider, a sweet savory "funk," light stone fruits, sweet nuts. (with water) More vibrant and clean, but otherwise unchanged. Taste - (without water) Quite hot, slight salinity, apple cider, fruity heat from white pepper, sweet golden raisins. (with water) Reduced heat, apples, golden raisins, hints of dried papaya, fruity heat from white pepper. Finish - (without water) Heat lingers, a white pepper tingle/heat, fruity apple, brined sour green Granny Smith apples. (with water) Lingering heat, pleasant sweet golden raisins, apple cider, a touch of salt. Score - 81/100 Final Thoughts - This mysterious sample presented each note with a degree of uncertainty and intrigue, as one wonders if they're entirely off or spot on. The nose on this spirit remarkably concealed the high proof. The initial aroma without water was quite pleasant, with hints of a fruity "funk" that made me ponder if it originated from the spirit itself or perhaps a peculiar sherry cask. Upon tasting without water, the high proof became very apparent. The "funk" from the nose mostly vanished, replaced by what I sometimes detect from a re-used oloroso or possibly an amontillado/manzanilla cask, which tend to impart a sweeter, nuttier character. The finish remained somewhat hot with or without water, but was generally pleasing. Would I drink it if offered? - Yes Would I specifically order it? - Perhaps Would I buy a bottle? - No NOTE - All reviews are conducted without considering the price.