Tormore 1998 13 Year Cask Strength (Gordon & MacPhail)

Tormore is an independent star performer. I can't recall a better example of a distillery that frequently provides outstanding cask-strength independent bottlings yet lacks a well-known original release. Perhaps Ben Nevis or Bladnoch come close? Tormore reliably delivers a powerful experience when given the no-nonsense, cask-strength treatment by an independent bottler. This whisky is like your grandmother's lemon meringue pie, but set aflame. It has a dusting of cocoa powder, vanilla sticks, and unripe mango. The finish is vanilla, honey, and a significant amount of alcohol and spice heat. The overall experience is classic Scotch, reminiscent of Glen Grant 18, but with more intensity. This isn't a critique of Glen Grant 18, which is highly regarded, but rather an observation that sometimes a bolder character is desired. I've found that adding water doesn't improve this whisky; it lessens the alcohol's bite but diminishes the precise, creamy lemon profile it initially offers. Score: * (unforgettably good) Estimated bottle cost: $80-120 My perceived bottle value: $130

Incredible flavor intensity that lingers and is present on the mouth, tongue, throat, and chest. The aroma can be almost too much.