Sullivans Cove American Oak Second Fill Whisky (TD0072) 700ml (ABV 46.5%)

Nose

Peonies, and worm tub spice: Santal 33, sandalwood, cumin seeds before they toast. Cacao, praline, and drinking malt. A nice touch of leather and balsamic. Funky and deep fruit (beguiling!): overripe banana, bitter orange, stewed apples.

Palate

Medium thick body, further thickening the longer it’s on the palate. Citrus bursts, and then a whole world of Monte Carlo: sweet biscuit, jam, and the sweet ‘cream’ that actually tastes more like Ypovrichio. Cocoa on the mid palate, with nougat and sweet Spring grass. And of course, fruit is ever present: lime musk, ripe pineapple and bananas.

Finish

Monte Carlos just can’t stay out of the spotlight. And guess who’s back? Worm tub spice, bundled nicely in a holiday-themed bundle of Pfeffernsse and Panforte. Ho, Ho, Ho. Touch of mint cuts through ripe banana, and Werther’s Original. A lot of dark vanilla and clove. Lengthy, with both flavour and the waxy-silk texture driving it together.