Twelve year-old Scots SM matured in used American white oak bourbon casks, then over-matured to finish in used ruby port casks from estates in Portugal. It is bottled at 46% alcohol, and it is not chill-filtered.
I never really understood the "woods" issue before tasting this very interesting whiskey. It seems sacrilegious to some purists of the old school, but I found it a distinctly refreshing and complex alternative. It has opened a new window for me, and I plan to explore a few other alternative "wood" finishes, like sherry and the one that originally captivated my interest: Jamaican rum.
The color is bright amber, and it shows good legs in the glass. I did not ice it, tasting only neat at room temperature, but I suspect it may go a bit cloudy when well chilled -- if that is your wont. I am strictly a neat person, so did not taste it with water, either.
The nose is very full and very romantic. Strong notes of chocolate and vanilla vie with other familiar, yet mysterious hints -- maybe a slight suggestion of almond or other nuts. It is complex, and very inviting.
In the mouth, it is a series of slowly maturing surprises that defeat any attempt to swallow this whiskey quickly. It feels somewhat thick, the banal term "velvety" leaps to mind, and all of the sensual delights of the nose reach their fulfillment as the warm whiskey continues to work every lever of taste. Swirl it over the tongue and let it work its magic; the soft ghost of the port cask imparts a distinct and inviting hint of sweet, and there is little or no burn on the palate -- a pleasant surprise, itself, in a 92-proof whiskey.
I like this stuff!
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Originally Posted by w3bny
