This Loch Lomond Inchmurrin has been matured in a 1st fill ex-bourbon hogshead for 15 years. Sweet, Fruity & Mellow profile.
Nose: An interesting and enticing combination of tanned leather, honeysuckle, elderflower, spiced orange and almonds. Despite no wine influence there’s almost a mulled like quality here - reduction and infusion leading to greater depths of complex aromas. In the background, wafts of creamy rice pudding, and tinned tropical fruit salad. The addition of water pronounces the underlying maltiness of the distillate – oaty cereal, banana bread and malt loaf.
Taste: Maltiness continues on the palate – breakfast cereals, sour dough and hints of Imperial IPA. There’s a lovely fruitiness which extends across the deeper more malt driven flavours – peaches and apricots softened further with banana custard and milk chocolate. Somewhat indulgent. In the background, cask influence – slight nutmeg and a sprinkle of white pepper. Reduction adds chocolate digestives and gingernuts.
Finish: Medium to long, with tingly tart tropical and citrus, slight mossiness and an interesting chalky texture as it slips down the palate. I found water less beneficial here, considerably shortening the length of the finish.
Lomond are cracking out some excellent whiskies recently and this SMWS bottling is no exception. A great balance between malt, fruit and cask influence. Tasty stuff indeed.