Tobermory 1995 / 12 Year old (Speciality Drinks Ltd)

Two planes of aromas, can be generally classified as the malty and the sweaty. But there's more at work here. A lot of smells I am personally nostalgic for: Candy apples, salt water and potatoes, Clearasil, Neilson's Jersey Milk, SaraLee chocolate cakes, ginger and soy sauce.

Big chewy maltiness that envelops your mouth but quickly pulls back in, becoming slightly astringent. A drop of water not only mutes the astringency but really opens up a barrel of fermenting fruits and sugar. Medicinal characteristics too, Alka Seltzer, herbal throat lozenges, acetaminophen. Chocolate and berry jam in the medium-length finish with a maritime saltiness, too.

SUMMARY:

Like songs on an old cassette, "Summer Mix 1986", that take you back in time, this dram really transported me. And to be totally honest, I am surprised to have enjoyed this as much as I did. Brilliant island character with a good depth of flavour. Enjoyable in the nose, a challenge on the palate. No, not sophisticated or subtle, but hearty and distinct.

Nose:  Some toffee notes initially, develops baked apple and grapefruit, also some ginger and pepper aromas.  Shortbread and faint cocoa hints eventually, along with some polished malt characteristics.

Palate:  Very malty, with the toffee, fruit and more savoury elements from the nose coming through with some spices evident as well.  Medium-to-full-bodied, with a nice oily mouthfeel.  Opens up beautifully with a tiny drop of water.

Finish:  Long, lingering spice, malt and other cereal notes.

Comment:  Not the most delicately balanced dram I've ever had, but great fun.