2004 Lady of the Glen Teaninich Single Cask #301013 17 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Despite being 'finished' for over two years in an ex-Tawny Port barrique, the port influence isn't profound. The opening sniffs are relatively dry and peppery, with muted vanillan malt and a slightly acidic lift, but expand into deeper, richer notes of chocolate cheese cake and blood orange. More of an attack than the nose suggests and more of a stewed fruit accent as opposed to the fresh orchard fruit character you often associate with this distillate. Spices maintain intensity through the bittersweet finish. Given that Diageo's official release of the same age is selling for well over $500, the price is very reasonable. 56.3% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. 259 bottles

Notes from the bottlers... Nose: Very sweet and nutty on the initial nose with notes of sugared almonds, lemon lozenges and a touch of chocolate orange. Warming spice notes develop with ginger, nutmeg and flaky pastry. Palate: A well-structured entry with the delivery of sweet and spice notes perfectly balanced. A toasted baguette with Nutella spread character moves along to reveal blueberry and blackberry crumble. Finish: A chocolate mint note emerges followed by butter toffee, vanilla and floral honey notes. This sweetness fades leaving a drier herbal character of tobacco, fennel and roasted peanuts.