The most recent launch from the WhiskyNerds simply arrived in shops. It’s a Secret Orkney 2004, a 17 12 months outdated single malt that was in all probability distilled at Highland Park. Different bottlers like CasQueteers and Clever Dodger already bottled related sherry casks (even crammed on the identical day).
Secret Orkney 17 yo 2004 (49,4%, WhiskyNerds 2022, butt #13, 248 btl.)
Nostril: a leathery begin, adopted by hints of chalk, moist pebbles and mineral oils, in addition to a bag of lemons and oranges. Chestnut honey and sage. General the sherry is a delicate (refill) Oloroso fashion and brings alongside a mossy sweetness, some tobacco and a whiff of gunpowder. Delicate smoke too.
Mouth: moderately candy now, specializing in orange cake and honey, with hints of berry syrup and gingerbread. Brown sugar and apples, with heather and peppery notes. Ginger biscuits with a bit toffee and chocolate within the background. Then delicate, heat smoke mixing with candy natural touches. Slightly clove comes out in the long run.
End: lengthy, with candy oranges, extra of the candy herbs (thyme now) and oak spice.
A reasonably candy Highland Park. Initially I had some hassle with the caramel and gunpowder on the nostril, however after some time the candy sherry fashion actually grew on me. Now accessible from retailers like Whiskybase or Whiskysite.nl as an example.
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