BENROMACH 16 years 2010 Golden Promise

Nose : rich and concentrated. Dominated by waves of peat with magnificent chocolatey, tertiary (date, fig) and rancio-like notes (candied apricot, brandied cherry), the aromatic profile gradually reveals infused herbs (bay leaf, chamomile), spices (star anise, cinnamon), malt and citrus fruits (pink grapefruit, lime). With aeration, aromas of beeswax, incense and sandalwood permeate the atmosphere.

Palate : lively and concentrated. Mineral (slate), tangy (kaffir lime), spicy (Cayenne pepper) and medicinal (ointment, mustard plaster), the palate also reveals savoury, meaty notes (bacon, bresaola). Flavours of pipe tobacco, grated ginger and candied orange then illuminate a vibrant and distinguished end to the palate, with notes of curry and turmeric.

Overall : full and distinguished. Powdery (cocoa), liquorice-like, roasted (coffee) and tarry, it evokes delicious green tomato fritters and gooseberries. Becoming increasingly distinctive, it develops into charred, sooty notes. On the retro-olfaction, heady aromas of iris concrete, lily and tuberose blossom over an autumnal aftertaste of humus, lichen and dried leaves.