Clynelish Select Reserve 2nd Edition Special Releases 2015

Tasting notes by Billy A

• Nose

  Hugely waxy – the classic Clynelish character dialled up to 11: melting tea lights, floral candles and a tiny bit of waxed jacket. Sweetshop sweetness sits alongside thin vanilla custard, with candy necklaces and marshmallows joined by foam strawberries and hints of violet. Water brings out a sherbety fizz and candied lemons.

• Palate

  Waxed lemons, Love Hearts, floury apples and custard tarts lead. Creamy notes develop, with vanilla toffee providing sweetness, and cinnamon and clove giving a spicy contrast. The sweetshop notes from the nose also build, laying down a fragrant, sweet and floral backdrop.

• Finish

  Menthol and flowers appear initially, before fading slowly to freshly polished tables and sweet orange juice.

• Comment

  An over-the-top Clynelish, that focuses on the waxy and floral side of the distillery's character – the rumour is that older spirit has amplified those flavours, with some younger whisky added to temper the vatting into a well-rounded dram. If you like your whisky waxy, then you'll love this.