Deep gold, polished mahogany highlights. Approachable and rich. First polished wood and nuts (toasted hazelnut) dominate, then rich fruits, both stewed (baked apples) and dried (sweeet dates) take over, with soft brown sugar. Behind this, a stick of liquorice. Mossy. Water brings out a sweeter, more direct Speyside character (citrus fruits, pear drops!). Clean and dense. After a while, warm, dry aromas of pencil shavings or match-sticks.

Smooth. Medium. Sweetness and crunchy nuts impress at first, then there's a smooth, fruity Speyside richness to enjoy. Firm, with a balancing sweetness: hints of blackcurrant fruit, brown sugar and espresso coffee. Warming and pleasant. With water, still a pleasant texture. Light sweetness, then chewy and balanced by a light acidity, with a good spread of flavours mid-palate. Medium to long. Elegantly drying and crisp; then a sweetly nutty delayed warmth, which lingers pleasantly.