One of only 6978 bottles available worldwide.
 
A rather well-matured single malt from the Dalwhinnie Distillery, bottled for Diageo's 2020 Special Releases! This expression slumbered soundly for 30 years in refill hogshead casks, before being bottled up at 51.9% ABV. Brilliant stuff, this. Loads of shortbread, orchard fruit and soft spices to dig into.
 
Nose: Like a dusty old library book next to an old-school loose tobacco jar, plus boiled sweets, herbal florals and wood shavings. There's a very subtle influence of struck match, too - but it adds colour and dimension rather than overpowering.
 
Palate: There's a peppery wood spice that comes through, alongside greener, herbal notes. The florals become increasingly drier, but the texture is lifted by some juicy orchard fruit notes. The library books become more leathery when water is added.
 
Finish: Long and lively, with lashings of warming sweet spices.
 
Overall: The gentle dram gets a burst of energy!