DIAMOND 2003 Navy TCRL

Nose : full, rich. Boasting a spectacularly classical nature, the initial nose is roasted (tobacco, coffee), fruity (apricot, mango), chocolatey and characterised by polish notes (beeswax, varnish). Upon airing, it becomes floral (lilac, tuberose) and subtly caramelised. Curry powder and pink peppercorn unfurl, enhancing its heavily spicy nature._x000D_ _x000D_ _x000D_

Palate : firm, assertive. These same spices serve as a seamless, inspired link between the nose and the palate. The latter soon veers towards the apricot-infused with a subtle earthy aspect (clay, marl). The mid-palate is characterised by candied fruit (fig, date), chocolate and black liquorice. It persists with notes of juicy pear and cumin._x000D_

Overall : long, opulent. Like a wave rushing to the shore, noble spices (star anise, cardamom), fresh fruit (apricot, nectarine), toasted walnuts, cocoa beans and ginger root take the taste buds by storm. Simultaneously sweet and salty, the end of the palate displays a very regal bitterness. The retro-nasal olfaction is oily (black olive) and velvety (hot chocolate). The empty glass is animalistic (bacon) and roasted (Havana cigar).