21 Swell & Co Series Scotch SM SC Ben Nevis 2014 Peat

TASTING NOTES

NOSE : Upon first approach, a delicate birch smoke rises, carried by a creamy sweetness of melted honey on warm brioche. Flowers mingle in the mix, honeysuckle, lavender and hyacinth, supported by a hint of spruce resin. With time, the aromas gain depth: thick vanilla, lightly toasted hazelnuts, brandied peaches, milk chocolate chips and light caramel. A note of chocolate-coated honey, almost melting, mingles with red liquorice and smoking beeswax candles. In the background, a darker hint appears: supple leather, new rubber, shoelaces freshly pulled from their box. A rich, layered nose that reveals itself layer by layer.

PALATE: The attack is smooth but deep, with dense, luminous lavender honey. Darker nuances quickly emerge: boot leather, liquorice, light pipe smoke, cherry pipe tobacco. The wood then comes to the fore: solid oak, a worn dining table, warm spices, cloves, cardamom and nutmeg. Sweetness follows naturally: caramel bars, crème caramel, white chocolate chips and subtle sweet pistachio. The texture is full-bodied and rounded, carried by a remarkable balance between floral sweetness, smoke, woodiness and spices.

FINISH: Long, warm and enveloping. The spices return, cloves, cardamom and cinnamon, merging with rich vanilla cream and a veil of warm honey. Echoes of toasted wood and wax prolong the sensation in a finish that seems to stretch on forever.