More from Loch Lomond this month, this time in the form of Inchmoan. This example has been matured in a 2nd fill ex-bourbon hogshead for 10 years. Sweet, Fruity & Mellow profile.
Nose: Leafy and creamy – an intriguing combination. Fallen autumn leaves, elderflower, bay leaf and heather are joined by soft peak meringues, peach ice-cream and a Magnum Choc-ice. After a period of resting, the cask starts to exert itself with some gentle touches of toffee, and leathery spices. The addition of water adds more creaminess – crème patisserie filled choux buns.
Taste: A bolder arrival than the nose suggested with a thick and weight arrival. Hedgerow berries, brown sugar and tinned pears come together with fresh linens, mowed lawn and pressed flowers. Water heightens the maturation with white pepper and stabs of vanilla beans.
Finish: Medium, with malts and oats, chocolate sauce and a pinch of pepper.
A sound Inchmoan that’s more effective on the nose than on the palate. The aroma selection is enticing, living up to its bottle name with plenty of natural sweetness and creaminess – the palate is more cask-driven swapping a sense of luxuriant emulsion for floralness and overt spice. Overall easy-going and hard to fault, but no fireworks either.