Tobermory 23 year old

Nose: Abundant oloroso notes with walnuts, dates, cocoa and preserved orange. Hints of malt extract and aromas of raisins/grapes. A profound sense of well-aged cask is present but not oak-dominant. The maturity is evident; the nose is rich yet somewhat reserved. Palate: The initial taste is striking with mature dark fruit flavors and a rich, full mouthfeel. As it develops, notes of spiced orange, dark coffee, and buttery caramel emerge alongside rum raisin chocolate and walnut brittle. A subtle salty tang appears near the finish. It improves considerably with water, enhancing all aspects. Finish: Medium to long. Very smooth milk chocolate and vanilla. Harmonious. A faint trace of salty orange peel lingers. Adding water doesn't alter the flavor profile but adds creaminess to the texture and extends the finish. A delightful single malt, distilled in 1996 and aged in refill hogsheads until 2009, with a portion released as a 15-year-old expression. The remaining spirit was further matured in the same hogsheads before being moved to Gonzales Byass sherry butts in 2014. Initially, I found this whisky to be good but a bit too subdued, perhaps even "tired" as if over-matured. However, a small amount of water completely revitalized it. With a teaspoon of water and a gentle swirl, it instantly came alive, maintaining its 23 years of age while gaining the vibrancy and spicy character of a much younger spirit. I strongly advocate for adding a dash of water; it's a sleeping giant. This is not presently sold in Australia. In the UK, it costs £290. I've been quoted AUD$400-600 for its potential arrival here, which seems reasonable, but despite its quality, I'm uncertain if it warrants that price. If you have the means, it's a recommended purchase; otherwise, savor a taste if you can find it. Nevertheless, judging purely on quality and disregarding the cost, I must rate it highly. Tasted at the Sydney Whisky Show on May 15, 2021. Tasting #9. "Very Good": 87/100 (4.25 stars) PS - I made a mistake in this entry; the alcohol by volume is 46.3%, not 46%.

Reminds me of a Christmas cake in a glass. Smells like sponge cake, almonds, custard, and saffron. A robust, oaky character leads to lasting notes of walnut and fig, with a subtle hint of kelp or seaweed at the end.

Very smooth, light, floral, and slightly sweet.